As begins to fade, many people start to fear . However, a new study published in the journal Intelligence reveals that there’s no need for alarm. For many of us, the peak of brain productivity occurs between the ages of 55 and 60.
This finding suggests that individuals in this age range are often at their best when it comes to problem-solving in the workplace and can be highly effective leaders. This is according to lead author Dr. Gilles E. Gignac, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Western Australia.
He notes that numerous studies indicate people typically reach their peak physical condition between the ages of 25 and 35. Many researchers have also found that basic cognitive abilities—such as the capacity for quick thinking, memory retention, and information processing—usually begin to decline after the age of 25.
However, the authors of this new study looked beyond these established stereotypes and uncovered a different picture.
According to Dr. Gignac, the team focused on psychological traits that extend beyond measurable reasoning abilities and are stable characteristics rather than temporary states. These traits have clearly defined age trajectories and are known to predict real-life effectiveness.
During their research, the scientists identified several psychological characteristics that meet these criteria. These include core cognitive abilities such as reasoning, memory, information processing speed, knowledge, and emotional intelligence. They also encompass the so-called “Big Five” personality traits: extraversion, emotional stability, conscientiousness, openness to experience, and agreeableness.
And now for the most interesting part
Following this, the researchers analyzed data from previous large-scale studies focused on these characteristics and traced how each one develops over a lifetime. The results showed that some traits peak at a much later age. For instance, conscientiousness peaks at 65, while emotional stability peaks at 75.
Meanwhile, the ability to resist cognitive biases that can lead to irrational or inaccurate decisions improves even into the 70s and 80s.
Dr. Gignac pointed out that when the team combined the age trajectories of all the studied characteristics, they discovered a striking pattern.
Overall cognitive functioning peaks between the ages of 55 and 60, and then begins to decline around 65. This decline becomes more pronounced after the age of 75, as reported by Science Alert.
Let’s end age discrimination!
The findings from this study help explain why many of the most responsible leadership positions in business, politics, and public life are often held by individuals in their late 50s and early 60s.
The reality is that while some may weaken with age, they are compensated for by the development of other important qualities. Specifically, those related to more measured judgment and wise decision-making, which are crucial for leaders.
Despite the optimistic conclusions of the researchers, older workers often face significant challenges in the workplace, particularly when it comes to finding new employment after losing a job.
Meanwhile, the study authors emphasize the need for more inclusive hiring and retention strategies. Many older individuals possess valuable advantages that younger candidates simply cannot match.
By the way, published “On the Origin of Species” at the age of 50. At 53, the completely deaf Ludwig van premiered his Ninth Symphony. And Lisa Su, now 55, leads the computer corporation Advanced Micro Devices, achieving one of the most radical breakthroughs in innovative technology.
Photo: pexels.com
