It’s not retirement that slows down the brain, but what we do afterwards. A doctor specializing in aging explains how to keep it alive.
Contrary to popular belief, the brain does not necessarily age faster after retirement. In reality, it is not stopping work itself that accelerates brain aging, but rather the change in lifestyle that can sometimes accompany it. Indeed, during active life, our brain is regularly called upon: solving complex problems, daily social interactions, structured rhythm… These activities stimulate memory, attention and the speed of processing information. After retirement, if we reduce these stimulations, certain cognitive functions may decline more quickly.
“After retirement, the brain is often less stimulated. However, it is at this moment that we must redouble our efforts to keep him as alert as possible. This period requires vigilance: not letting yourself go, keeping your goals, and remaining engaged in social life. This last point is particularly important. According to some studies, having regular exchanges outside the family circle could increase longevity by 11%“, immediately asks Professor Éric Boulanger, geriatrician, specialist in aging medicine at Lille University Hospital. In reality, brain aging begins early: from the age of 20, certain areas of the brain decrease slightly in volume. The hippocampi — two small nuclei located inside the brain, very involved in memory — also begin to shrink from the age of 40–50, and are particularly affected. in Alzheimer’s disease. But the more you stimulate your brain, the more you slow down this process. Because the brain remains plastic throughout life: it is capable of creating new neuronal connections even after 70 years. “Extensive research shows that retired people who continue to stimulate their brains retain their abilities much longer“, argues our expert.
According to our expert, several pillars are essential to prevent aging: seeing and hearing correctly (treating without delay a cataract or presbycusis which interferes with daily life), maintaining social interactions (friends, associations, clubs, volunteering, etc.), eating well: favoring a pleasant and varied diet, without too much or too little, practicing appropriate physical activity, getting enough sleep: sleep activates the glymphatic system, a real brain purification station that turns on every 20 seconds… but only during deep sleep, having projects (personal goals, learning a new language, creative activities, DIY, music…)
Ultimately, it is not retirement that accelerates brain aging, but the intellectual, social and physical inactivity that can occur afterwards. By staying active and curious, you can keep your brain sharp and healthy for many years.
Thanks to Professor Éric Boulanger, geriatrician, specialist in aging medicine at Lille University Hospital, medical director of tempoforme®
