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The Age of Novel Thinking

A smiling woman is playing chess with a smiling elderly male in a house setting. IStock# 619393614.

Prime Women

Sandra B. Chapman

Overview

According to cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Sandra Bond Chapman, most people believe their peak brain performance occurred when they were a decade or so younger, irrespective of their age. This powerful assumption stems from popular misconceptions, like the notion that intelligence is innate, not learned, and the brain's capacity fixed, not changeable. However, recent science suggests the brain has the capacity to adapt and grow stronger, even as we age. A key seems to be engaging the frontal lobe functions that enable people to think more innovatively, efficiently and deeply. Applying brain-healthy strategies in everyday life can help you engage the frontal lobe, like using the "focus and filter" approach when you feel overwhelmed, brainstorming to generate and explore brand new ideas and possible solutions, and choosing to practice kindness and compassion in social interactions. Mindful, brain-healthy choices can help you elevate processing speed while applying the wisdom and experience that comes with age. Read full story on Prime Women

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Sandra Bond Chapman, PhD

Chief Director Dee Wyly Distinguished Professor, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences Co-Leader, The BrainHealth Project

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