Five age-related brain fractures: study shows how thinking changes from childhood to old age
25 November 2025 21:03
An international team of British and American neuroscientists has identified five key moments in human brain development that affect learning, perception, memory, and the risk of mental disorders.
The results are published in the journal Nature Communications, The Guardian reports, "Komersant Ukrainian".
What was studied
Scientists analyzed nearly 4,000 MRI scans of people aged one to 90. This is one of the largest studies to accurately track how neural connections are restructured throughout life and how this affects the brain’s ability to function.
Five stages of change
0-9 years – active “cleaning” of the brain
In early childhood, a large number of synapses – unnecessary contacts between neurons – disappear. Only the connections that are really needed for effective learning and development remain.
9-32 years – the formation of the adolescent brain
During this period, the brain “grows up”: signals are transmitted faster, thinking, memory, and cognitive skills improve. It is at this stage that the highest risks of mental disorders arise due to rapid and large-scale restructuring.
About 32 years of age – structural stabilization
This is the transition to the “adult mode” when the brain structure becomes more organized and works in a coordinated manner. This stage is considered the longest.
After 66 years – early aging
The effectiveness of connections between different areas of the brain naturally begins to weaken. This can affect the speed of thinking and information processing.
83 years and beyond – a marked decline in cognitive performance
Neural connections degrade more significantly, which is often associated with memory and attention loss in the elderly.
What scientists say about the benefits of the study
Scientists explain that models of age-related “breakdowns” can help us understand why adolescents are more likely to experience depression and anxiety disorders.
In addition, it will be possible to predict changes in memory and cognitive function in older age, as well as to develop more accurate methods of diagnosing and treating mental and neurological diseases.
The ages are averages
The researchers emphasize that the above ages are averages.
Other factors can affect brain reorganization, including
- lifestyle,
- education,
- stress,
- parenthood, and changes in social role at the age of 30.
Scientists believe that further research will help determine how external factors accelerate or slow down brain changes throughout life.
