Neuroplasticity and Ageing: Can the Brain Keep Growing?
Neuroplasticity means the brain forms new connections throughout life. Here's how to train cognitive reserve and protect IQ against ageing.
For a long time researchers believed the brain was fully built by the early twenties. Today we know it keeps reshaping across life – which changes how we think about both learning and ageing.
What is neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to form new synapses and even new neurons (mainly in the hippocampus). Every new skill you learn leaves a trace in the physical structure.
The ageing brain
Fluid intelligence peaks in the early 20s and drops slowly. Crystallised intelligence keeps growing into the 60s in cognitively active adults.
Cognitive reserve
Education, complex jobs, bilingualism and rich social life build a buffer – cognitive reserve – that protects against dementia even when pathology appears on MRI.
How to train plasticity
New skills (language, instrument, dance) stimulate plasticity more than pure memory drills. Combine with aerobic exercise, which directly raises growth factors in the brain.
Test yourself
Curious where you'd land? Take our free online IQ test – no sign-up required.
FAQ
- Can adults grow new brain cells?
- Yes. The hippocampus produces new neurons throughout life, and new synapses form whenever you learn. Aerobic exercise and novel skill learning both boost this process.
- Does IQ inevitably decline with age?
- Fluid intelligence peaks in the early 20s and slowly declines. Crystallised intelligence keeps rising into the 60s in cognitively active adults.
- What builds cognitive reserve?
- Education, complex work, bilingualism, rich social life and continued learning create a buffer that protects against dementia even when pathology appears on MRI.