What Limits And What Facilitates Neuroplasticity According To Lara Boyd?
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to change and adapt in response to experience. It is a lifelong process that occurs throughout the lifespan. So, what limits and what facilitates neuroplasticity?
According to Dr. Lara Boyd, a leading expert on brain plasticity, there are three main factors that limit neuroplasticity:
The first is the amount of time that has elapsed since the onset of the brain injury or disease.
The second is the severity of the brain injury or disease.
And the third is the age of the individual when the brain injury or disease occurred.
However, there are also several things that can facilitate neuroplasticity, including:
Cognitive stimulation: This can be anything from learning a new skill to participating in a mentally stimulating activity. This type of stimulation encourages the brain to make new connections and can help to offset some of the effects of aging.
Physical activity: Exercise has been shown to increase levels of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which promotes the growth of new neurons and the formation of new connections.
Social interaction: Social interaction and bonding have also been shown to increase BDNF levels and promote neuroplasticity.
Stress reduction: Stress has been shown to have negative effects on brain plasticity. Reducing stress through relaxation techniques like meditation can help to offset some of these negative effects.
Overall, it is clear that there are both factors that limit and facilitate neuroplasticity. However, it is also important to keep in mind that neuroplasticity is a lifelong process that occurs throughout the lifespan. So even if someone has a brain injury or disease, there are still things that can be done to encourage brain plasticity and offset some of the negative effects.