Introduction: The uncomfortable truth about brain aging
You might imagine that your brain stays sharp until old age. But science paints a different picture. A groundbreaking study by psychologist Timothy Salthouse, involving over 5,000 adults aged 20–90, shows that cognitive decline begins decades earlier than expected. This research forces us to rethink brain health — not as something to worry about in retirement, but as a lifelong journey that starts now.
Processing speed declines from your 20s
The study revealed that processing speed — how fast your brain handles information — starts to decline almost linearly from your twenties. This is one of the earliest and most consistent markers of cognitive aging.
Memory and reasoning fall after 60
Memory and reasoning abilities remain relatively stable for a while, but the drop accelerates after age 60. This explains why older adults often notice difficulties in learning new information or solving complex problems.
Vocabulary holds up longest
Interestingly, vocabulary and knowledge actually improve until about age 60, before plateauing or declining slightly. It’s the one area where life experience compensates for biological decline.
Why early decline matters
Why should you care if memory starts to slip or processing speed slows? Because prevention works best before the damage is done. If interventions only begin in old age, much of the decline has already occurred.
Salthouse’s study makes one thing clear: supporting brain health is not optional and not something to postpone.
What you can do today to support brain health
- Prioritize sleep and stress management → lifestyle choices accelerate decline.
- Stay mentally active → learning, puzzles, and new skills keep the brain engaged.
- Exercise regularly → physical activity improves blood flow and neuroplasticity.
- Nutrition and supplementation → certain nutrients, including B-vitamins, play a key role in maintaining cognitive function.
This is why we developed Neuro, the first longevity-first brain supplement — built to support your brain’s core functions long-term, while enhancing clarity and focus today.
A call to awareness — and action
The takeaway is simple yet profound: cognitive aging begins earlier than you think. Processing speed declines from your 20s, memory and reasoning accelerate downward after 60, and vocabulary only shields you for so long.
The good news? You’re not powerless. Every choice you make — from lifestyle to nutrition — can help maintain clarity today and build resilience for tomorrow.
Reference
Salthouse, T. A. (2019). Trajectories of normal cognitive aging. Psychology and Aging, 34(1), 17–24. DOI: 10.1037/pag0000288. PubMed: 30211596.