Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Olivia Goldhill
Published on 2024-02-22 09:30:21
Despite the prevalent belief that cognitive abilities inevitably decline with age, research has shown that there are actually cognitive skills that improve in older adults. A study conducted by a psychology professor in Michigan, Richard Nisbett, found that Americans appear to get wiser with age, as they become better at recognizing multiple perspectives, encouraging compromise, and acknowledging the limits of their own knowledge. This observation challenges the stereotype that older adults are less mentally sharp and capable in their decision-making.
Research has also demonstrated that as people age, they exhibit less emotional volatility, experience greater emotional well-being and stability, and are better at navigating social conflict. Older individuals show signs of increased wisdom, calmer decision-making, and the ability to learn from their past decisions. Contrary to widely-held beliefs, the cognitive effects of aging are not entirely negative. While there are skills that may decline with age, such as working memory, there is a growth in cognitive abilities that are specifically accumulated through lived experience and enhanced judgment.
The cognitive attributes observed in older adults contribute to their ability to make careful and thoughtful decisions that can be particularly beneficial in leadership roles, as well as when evaluating long-term versus immediate benefits. While certain physical deficiencies may come with aging, this does not necessarily indicate a decline in the capacity for executive function. Most notably, older adults have acquired a wealth of knowledge throughout their lives that enables them to act with nuance and wisdom.
Research has also highlighted the importance of emphasizing the positive cognitive aspects of aging, as the prevalent focus on deficits contributes to ageism and a negative culture of viewing older adults. Additionally, studies that compare individuals of different age groups often fail to account for the cultural changes that occur over time. The stereotype that older people are better mediators, for example, may skew the perception of cognitive abilities in aging individuals.
There are also ample examples of older individuals who continue to excel in their areas of expertise, challenging the belief that cognitive decline is inevitable. This underscores the fact that aging is accompanied by an accumulation of knowledge and wisdom that can offset certain cognitive deficits. Focus on maintaining cognitive abilities in selective areas by seeking expert opinions and learning to cope with situations more effectively is an integral part of aging successfully.
Overall, the research on cognitive abilities in older adults significantly challenges the prevailing negative stereotypes and contributes to a more balanced and nuanced understanding of aging and cognitive health. It is essential to recognize and celebrate the cognitive strengths that develop as individuals age, and to acknowledge that older adults have a wealth of wisdom to contribute to various aspects of society and decision-making.
