Study reveals that youth lasts until 30: the impact of key age stages on the brain
A new study by researchers at the University of Cambridge has found that the brain goes through five different phases throughout life, including youth, which lasts longer than previously thought. The study examined about 4000 people under the age of 90. The results point to important stages of brain development that may explain the associated mental health risks. According to the lead author of the study, Dr. Alex Musley, the brain is capable of constant change due to new knowledge and experiences, without having a homogeneous development throughout life.
Source BBC
The study focuses on the following stages: childhood, adolescence, maturity, early and late old age. For example, in childhood, the brain is actively developing, but it is characterized by inefficient connections. Adolescence, starting from the age of nine, shows a significant increase in the efficiency of neural connections, while the risk of mental disorders increases. Scientists emphasize that youth can last up to 30 years, when the brain reaches its maximum efficiency.
Further stages from the age of 66 onwards show slow changes in brain networks, gradually moving to a state where its regions work autonomously. Although the study did not take into account gender differences, scientists note that changes in brain structure are associated with the development of neurodevelopmental and mental disorders, and understanding them can help combat these problems in the future.
