According to research, turning points occur at ages nine, 32, 66 and 83 years.
An analysis of about 4 thousand MRI scans of people under the age of 90 showed that brain development is not a smooth process, but occurs spasmodically, through individual stages of restructuring of neural connections.
The researchers identified the following phases:
- childhood – from birth to nine years;
- adolescence – from nine to 32 years;
- adult stage – from 32 to 66 years;
- early aging – from 66 to 83 years;
- late aging – after 83 years.
According to lead author of the study Alexa Mousley, it is during adolescence that the most dramatic restructuring of the brain structure occurs, and its peak efficiency occurs at the beginning of the third decade of life. At the same time, the risk of developing mental disorders increases.
During the adult phase, the brain remains relatively stable, but its efficiency gradually decreases with age. After age 66, changes in the organization of neural networks begin, which coincides with an increase in the risk of dementia and other age-related diseases.
Scientists note that these age limits may vary from person to person, but the stages themselves are clearly visible in the data. According to the researchers, the findings will help better understand why the risk of mental and neurological diseases changes at different stages of life.
Experts not involved in the work called the study significant and said it clearly demonstrates how much the brain changes throughout life.
