In this week’s video message John discusses new research which indicates that communication we have in our relationships stimulates the brain’s healthy growth and function as we age. In fact just this week, UC Irvine neurobiologists have provided the first visual evidence that learning promotes brain health and staves off many of the damaging effects of aging on our ability to think and process thoughts and memories.
Using a unique visualization technique to study memory, a research team led by Lulu Chen and Christine Gall found that everyday forms of learning animate neuron receptors that help keep brain cells functioning at their optimum levels. These receptors are activated by a protein which facilitates the growth and differentiation of the connections, or synapses, responsible for communication among neurons.
New studies of brain function are being released on a weekly and, in some instances, daily basis. As the largest segment of the baby boom generation begins to enter their sixties, the issue of maintaining healthy brain function has never been so important or garnered so much attention. As John points out, the quality of our relationships in later life could have a profound effect on the continued good health of our brains.
The daily back and forth of a relationship, John explains, stimulates our brains with new and different thoughts. Thanks to a growing body of research, it’s apparent now that brain growth occurs when we are exposed to views that are different from those of our own. We are most likely to be stimulated by the thoughts of our life partner and so an intimate relationship in later life, in addition to a variety of other benefits it creates, keeps our minds more active and engaged and therefore healthier.
Great information John. Thanks for sharing.