Norman Swan named approaches to support cognitive function
Taiwanese outlet Taipei Times published an interview with physician and broadcaster Norman Swan. In his new book, The Brain Cliff, he examines brain aging and approaches that may help support cognitive function. Swan urged people to speak not only about cognitive decline but also about cognitive changes, since comparing them with a person's abilities at age 20 may, in his view, be misleading.
According to the doctor, the speed of thinking and the ability to solve new problems, which he classifies as fluid intelligence, peak at a young age. At the same time, crystallized intelligence — knowledge, experience and wisdom — may improve with age.
Brain networks and stress
Swan described a phenomenon he calls brain “scaffolding”: the formation of networks of neural connections that can support cognitive abilities. He particularly highlighted the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in combining thoughts and memories, decision-making, judgment and emotional control.
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In Swan's view, repeatedly returning to unproductive anxious thoughts can distract this area of the brain from cognitive tasks. Among the seven people he calls cognitive super-agers and whom he spoke with for the book, a shared trait was the ability to solve problems and not dwell on stressful experiences. He also noted that the prefrontal cortex is affected by depression and alcohol.
Physical activity and new skills
The doctor emphasized that it is never too late to begin supporting the brain's ability to adapt, and mentioned ages 40 to 50 as a period when it is worth doing so. He links physical exercise to increased brain plasticity and also recommends an anti-inflammatory diet: less red meat, more varied vegetables, including leafy greens, fermented foods such as yogurt, and berries.
Swan also mentioned mind-wandering and “mental time travel” — recalling the past, focusing on the present and imagining the future — as processes that, he said, may contribute to brain “scaffolding.” He links support for cognitive function with learning new complex skills, social contacts, volunteering and active leisure. For people who find it difficult to cope with stress or intrusive thoughts on their own, the doctor advised consulting a qualified clinical psychologist who can use cognitive behavioral therapy options.
