The Secret Life Of The Grown-up Brain: The Surprising Talents Of The Middle-Aged Mind (2010) - Plot & Excerpts
I rated this book 4 stars only because of the Sources listed in the back which anyone could use to get more details and to fill in the gaps. Otherwise I would have given it 3 stars because there is some interesting information in the book. With that said, here's a brief summary of the book. The brain ages, individual brains age differently, nobodies 100% sure why, it could be genetics or environmental factors, and nobodies 100% sure if anything "really" helps, although some studies have pointed towards the benefits of; Overall Exercise, Proper Nutrition, and possibly Brain Fitness. Sound familiar? Same as our bodies! Strauch does an admirable job of presenting what happens to the brain during middle age and how to maximize its potential. She focuses on the best established scientific theories, interviewing the scientists at location and is careful to note if a theory is not yet well established and when multiple studies support a conclusion. The upshot is a positive one, as the brain ages it gains certain abilities while other skills decline. The ability to memorize lists is not as strong for a 50 yr old as a 20 yr old, but other cognitive skills are higher, sometimes much higher. The brain tends to become bilateral, utilizing both sides of the brain for skills that a younger brain only uses one side for. So while specific names are more easily forgotten, as an example, the brain becomes more adept at teasing out overall lessons and making accurate judgments. Strauch also uncovers the role that aerobic exercise plays in not only maintaining brain health but very possibly promoting the growth of new brain cells. It is unclear if a specific diet plays any significant role, but education certainly does.
What do You think about The Secret Life Of The Grown-up Brain: The Surprising Talents Of The Middle-Aged Mind (2010)?
It was pretty interesting. Learned some new things. A little dry at times but I'm glad I read it.
—Shannon
helped me realize that i'm ok and have a lot going for me at almost 50 years old!
—Nazz
Was good. I read most of the book, but couldn't devote time to read every word.
—Isiiiidora
There is more hope than we've been lead to believe!
—maya
