We’re Underestimating Older Brains

A forgotten name, misplaced keys, feeling overwhelmed by some new technology. Classic signs of a brain beginning its long, inexorable descent into old age? Not necessarily. In fact, new research shows that we can preserve and even enhance our cognitive skills as we get older. In this episode, we explore the science behind the aging brain with psychologist and lifelong learner Dr. Rachel Wu, who has made remarkable breakthroughs in understanding how older brains acquire new skills and knowledge. We also speak to Dr. Cindy Lustig, a neuroscientist, about the chemical changes that take place in our brains as we get older, and how they affect the ways we think and behave. Finally, we look at wisdom. Older people are wiser than younger ones (at least in the United States). We speak to social psychologist Dr. Richard Nisbett whose studies show that the idea of getting older and wiser is no myth.

You can listen to We’re Underestimating Older Brains online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

We’re Underestimating Older Brains is an episode from The World as You'll Know It by Aventine.

This episode is 31:25 long.

This episode was published on Jun 3, 2025.

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