Parenthood Linked to Lower Cognitive Decline With Age

The Epoch Times

Research suggests the challenges of parenting may strengthen brain networks and potentially guard against age-related decline.

Parenthood reshapes priorities, schedules, and, indeed, the brain itself. While short-term brain changes in parents are well-documented, it’s unclear if they last. Now, a study suggests that parenthood may give you a younger brain due to brain restructuring that safeguards against age-related cognitive decline.

Researchers of the study published in PNAS found that parents have better brain connections in areas that typically weaken with age. Compared to adults who are not parents, these different parts of their brain work more smoothly together.

“Yes, parenting is stressful and demanding, but it is also the most transformative experience because of the personal growth and changes over a lifetime of raising children and benefiting as a parent,” said Lisa Pion Berlin, president and CEO of Parents Anonymous®, a nonprofit that helps parents and communities thrive.