What Happends To Neuroplasticity When We Get Old?
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. This is how the brain adapts and learns new things. But what happens to neuroplasticity as we age?
According to a recent study, neuroplasticity declines with age. The study, which was published in the journal Nature, found that the brains of older adults are less adaptable than the brains of younger adults.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Madeline Lancaster, said that the findings suggest that the aging brain is less able to learn new things. “Our findings indicate that the aging brain is less able than the young brain to dynamically rewire itself,” Lancaster said. “This reduced capacity for neuroplasticity may underlie some of the cognitive decline seen in aging.”
While the study found that neuroplasticity declines with age, it’s important to note that the aging brain is still capable of some plasticity. So, while you may not be able to learn new things as easily as you could when you were younger, it’s still possible to learn new things as you age.