Cognitive Changes in Middle Adulthood
Changes in Cognitive FunctioningDespite the common perception that cognitive skills decline in middle age, most individuals do not experience a significant change in cognitive functioning in middle adulthood. In fact, a small but significant subset of adults experience an increase in cognitive functioning during this time (Hutchinson (2011), p. 327). The Seattle Longitudinal Study examined intellectual changes over time. Five of the mental abilities it tracked are
For more information about this study, visit the Seattle Longitudinal Study home page. |
Factors Affecting Cognitive ChangeCertain health issues or lifestyle choices can affect the amount of cognitive change a person experiences in middle adulthood. Some risk factors that can lead to more cognitive decline are:
Factors that can decrease the risk of cognitive decline are:
When working with middle-aged people be aware of these factors and consider if the person's environment and choices are conducive to maintaining cognitive functioning. Social workers can provide clients with resources to help make positive lifestyle changes than can decrease their risks. |
Gains in the Middle Aged Brain
BilateralizationOne way the brain compensates for declines in middle age is Hemispheric Asymmetry Reduction in the OLD (HAROLD). As people age, they begin to use both sides of the brain to accomplish cognitive tasks more frequently than younger people do. Generally speaking, the brain becomes less lateralized, or more bilateral with age (Cabeza, (2002)). Eyler et al (2010) and Strauch (2010) both found multiple studies that correlate an increase in bilateral activity in middle-aged adults to better cognitive functioning. Individuals whose brains are becoming bilateral will probably experience less cognitive decline, but the phenomenon can only be detected by brain imaging. Higher levels of education make bilateralization more likely to occur. Some researchers also suggest that using both sides of the brain leads to a greater balance between logic and emotion (Strauch (2010), p. 96, 98).
Brain Plasticity:
Brain plasticity allows for positive changes in brain structure and function even in middle age. Below is an interesting TED Talk explaining brain plasticity given by Dr. Max Cynader, the director of the Brain Research Centre and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health at Vancouver Costal Health and the University of British Columbia. For more information on HAROLD and Bilateralization: Check out Duke University's Center for Cognitive Neuroscience webpage: http://cabezalab.org/.
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Emotional RegulationEmotional responses are another aspect of brain functioning that starts to change for many people in middle age. Older people tend to have a decreased response to and memory of negative stimuli. The amygdala is the part of the brain responsible for many aspects of emotions, so researchers study it for explanations of this change. Mather, et al (2004) found that the amygdala in older adults showed a diminished response to negative images, but that this was not due to decreased function. Strauch (2010) reported similar results from other studies and found research that suggests middle adults who use the orbital frontal cortex to process emotion are more likely to have a positive outlook (p.38-39). While the reasons for changes in the brain may not be clear, the implications are important. Better emotional regulation and a more positive outlook can influence decision making, interactions and other aspects of life for middle-aged and older adults.
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Interesting Articles About the Middle Aged Brain: From the New York Times Magazine and The American Psychological Association.