Newer studies have elucidated just how much the human brain is in flux, even later in life. As it evolves, it moves through five clearly defined stages of development. This innovative statewide study scanned the brains of almost 4,000 Michiganders. The ages of these participants were diverse, ranging from less than a year (infants) to 90 years old (seniors). These results show that the brain’s organization grows more intricate and integrated over time. Most notably, these major transitions occur at ages nine, 32, 66 and 83 years of age.
In this groundbreaking study, the researchers relied on twelve different measures to quantify brain organization. It was looking at things like wiring efficiency, compartmentalization, and road connectivity networks. Such measures allowed discoveries on the trajectories of brain architecture to be reported, from birth to late adulthood.
Childhood is a critical period for brain development, spanning the prenatal period through age nine, when much of the foundational wiring and connectivity in the brain is formed. After this opening act, the teen years officially start at age nine and last until 32. Throughout this period, there is extensive development of white matter, which helps improve the communication networks that develop in the brain.
By the time we turn 32, our brain’s networks seem to achieve a type of optimum state, parallel with a peak in intelligence and personality traits too. This critical transition out of the adolescent phase bridges youth and young adulthood and ushers in a new era of mature cognitive capabilities.
Once people turn 66, they enter the “late midlife” stage of brain structure. This stage may be marked by dramatic loss of connectivity along with the very beginning of white matter regression. Only much later, from about 83 years onwards, does what scientists call the “late ageing” brain start to develop. Yet it is precisely during this period that brain connectivity continues to decline, eroding cognitive abilities even more.
The study emphasizes that brain development is not as linear as it seems. Instead, it is made up of critical junctures that have the power to shape one’s cognitive health in profound ways. Alexa Mousley noted the relationship between life milestones and brain changes:
“Looking back, many of us feel our lives have been characterised by different phases. It turns out that brains also go through these eras.”
Mousley further explained that these results indicate important changes in brain development. That doesn’t imply that people in their late 20s act the same way as teenagers.
“It’s reasonable to assume that there could be a relationship between these milestones and what’s happening in the brain.”
This research does more than just expand our scientific knowledge about brain development. It is equally important that it exposes potential vulnerabilities in brain wiring during critical life stages. Spotting these inflection points will enable you to more effectively craft winning strategies. Taking these approaches will help you understand when and where brain structure is potentially vulnerable to disruption.
“We’re definitely not saying that people in their late 20s are going to be acting like teenagers, or even that their brain looks like that of a teenager.”
Mousley pointed out how specific life events can impact brain structure:
This study provides an in-depth understanding of transitional phases during human brain development. It’s a wonderful introduction to what exactly happens to cognitive functions as we grow older.
“We know that women who give birth, their brain changes afterwards.”
This study provides a comprehensive overview of the transitions within human brain development, offering valuable insights into how cognitive functions evolve with age.