Tara Parker-Pope, NY Times columnist recently interviewed Barbara Strauch, author of “The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain: The Surprising Talents of the Middle Aged Mind”. Those of us wondering just what mental changes occur during this period, will enjoy reading this interview and Ms. Strauch’s book.

First we need to define middle age. Anyone over 60 will be pleased to note that in modern times, middle age occurs between ages 40-65. With that out of the way, here are the highlights of Parker-Pope’s interview with the author:

• decrease in our brain’s ability to process information
• decrease in neurotransmitters (chemicals that transmit nerve impulses)

The Positives of Aging

• improved inductive reasoning (the ability to draw conclusions based on a set of experiences) and problem solving
• ability to formulate creative solutions
• better judgement
• more interconnections within the brain
• new brain cells continue to be made (once thought otherwise)

How Can You Improve Brain Function?

Exercise! Turns out the same things that improve heart function also improve brain function.

And if you’ve been frustrated doing crossword puzzles or learning a language hoping to stave off dementia, well you can relax - there’s no firm data that these things work. (Having said that, to be absorbed and stimulated by learning is worthy in and of itself.)

To read the complete interview, follow this link.