The Secret to an 'Evergreen' Brain
Recent research has found that older folks who maintain their cognitive abilities as they age might have a genetic upper hand compared to others. This study has shed light on the fascinating category of elderly individuals known as "super-agers."
What are Super-agers?
Super-agers are people aged 80 or more who possess the memory capacity of someone 20 to 30 years younger. This is determined through delayed word recall testing. The term was coined by a doctor who founded an institute dedicated to cognitive neurology and Alzheimer's disease.
Insights from Recent Research
A recent study closely examined 38 brains from five different groups: healthy adults under 40, healthy older adults, individuals showing early signs of cognitive decline, individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, and super-agers. It was found that super-agers produced double the number of new neurons in a part of the brain critical to learning and memory, compared to regular older adults. This difference was even more stark when compared to people with Alzheimer's, where super-agers had two and a half times as many new neurons. This is a significant discovery, as it was believed until fairly recently that mammals were born with a fixed number of neurons.
Understanding the Brain's Plasticity
These findings suggest that adult human brains are not only capable of generating new neurons, but this process is influenced by age and cognitive status. The brains of super-agers displayed a "resilience signature", allowing them to cope with aging and maintain high cognitive performance. The study also found that changes in two specific types of cells help regulate memory and cognition in the aging brain. However, the authors did acknowledge limitations to their research, including a small sample size and the expected variability among human brain samples.
Unique Traits of Super-agers
Super-agers are not just characterized by their memory capacities. They have been found to possess other unique traits and tendencies. They generally identify as extroverts and have more of certain nerve cells linked to social behavior. They also tend to be adaptable and open to new experiences, with low levels of neuroticism. This, coupled with the fact that their brains shrink at a slower rate than their peers, makes super-agers a fascinating subject of study.
Super-agers and Immunity
When it comes to immunity, super-agers hold as many questions as they do answers. The brain houses immune cells called microglia, which are activated in people with neurodegenerative disorders. Super-agers were found to have fewer activated microglia than people with dementia, and a similar amount as people 30 to 40 years younger.
Striving for Cognitive Wellness
While the study does suggest that super-agers have a genetic advantage, even those who aren't super-agers can take steps to support their brain health. Prioritizing cognitive well-being early on, before natural decline or dementia sets in, is crucial. Engaging in activities that keep the brain active and fit are key, as is maintaining overall health. Factors such as poorly managed chronic illness or untreated mental trauma can impact neuron growth.
Words of Wisdom from a Super-ager
One participant of a super-aging program, an 86-year-old woman, offers some advice to non-super-agers: "Don't worry about the years. Just stay active, mentally and physically." She credits her cognitive resilience in part to her career as a journalist, which kept her mentally active and engaged.
Final Takeaway
It's much simpler to discuss preventative healthcare and brain health before serious issues arise. The brain's malleability is a testament to its incredible capabilities, and while some may be born with a genetic advantage, we can all take steps to nurture and care for our cognitive health.