A leading science writer examines how the brain's capacity reaches its peak in middle
age. For many years, scientists thought that the human brain simply decayed over time
and its dying cells led to memory slips, fuzzy logic, negative thinking, and even
depression. But new research from neuroscientists and psychologists suggests that, in
fact, the brain reorganizes, improves in important functions, and even helps us adopt
a more optimistic outlook in middle age. Growth of white matter and brain connectors
allow us to recognize patterns faster, make better judgments, and find unique solutions
to problems. Scientists call these traits cognitive expertise and they reach their
highest levels in middle age. In her impeccably researched book, science writer Barbara
Strauch explores the latest findings that demonstrate, through the use of technology
such as brain scans, that the middle-aged brain is more flexible and more capable than
previously thought. For the first time, long-term studies show that our view of middle
age has been misleading and incomplete. By detailing exactly the normal, healthy brain
functions over time, Strauch also explains how its optimal processes can be maintained.

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