General Cycling Discussion - Aging of the brain

Documentary on aging of the brain.

Old idea: brain loses neurons over time that connot be recovered. "Brain is not a muscle." Result: senility.

New discovery: Old idea is false. Brain responds amazingly to "exercise," developing continually even into old age.

Bike related note: Milton (last name?) is 92. He has exercised everyday since he was 42. His mind is in great shape.

Researchers now believe that exercise has a tremendous power to rejuvinate and keep healthy one's brain cells into old age.

KEEP ACTIVE, MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY!

(There's nothing new under the sun... ;) )

:)

(Neurons CAN be replaced!)

I don't know about this one. I ride every day, yet I would suggest there are some on this board who believe that my brain is no longer functioning. And I'm only 25 :eek:

Right on. Sadly, however, there are certain diseases that get in the way, and some that attack the brain directly. Beyond that, keep it up!!

Cyclists are just smarter. :) Motorists are Neanderthals. In fact it is impossible to hold an intelligent conversation with your average motorist. Maybe I am doing a disservice to Neanderthals. :D

Is a brain really necessary? Most people get along fine without it.

The best protection against age-related brain deterioration is a combination of diet, exercise, attitude, and mental stimulation. A brain is a terrible thing to waste, but excessive use of TV and cars does a pretty good job of it.

Originally posted by Weasel
Cyclists are just smarter. :) Motorists are Neanderthals. In fact it is impossible to hold an intelligent conversation with your average motorist. Maybe I am doing a disservice to Neanderthals. :D

Yes, Neandertal Man was pretty smart :D

My paternal grandmother ("Nanna" :p ) used to do crossword puzzles incessantly. I know she believed in the "use it or lose it," or more accurately phrased, "use it, increase it" principle.

She stayed sharp until she died. She was always independent: my parents built a house with a suite downstairs as a living quarters for her, but she refused to ever consider moving in. Her motto was, "I will die with my boots on."

One day, after shopping at the nearby grocery store on foot, as was her custom (Lansing, Michigan winters included) she collapsed on the living room floor--with her boots on, at 87. (Not bad for a single mom.)

:)

Originally posted by Weasel
Cyclists are just smarter. :) Motorists are Neanderthals. In fact it is impossible to hold an intelligent conversation with your average motorist. Maybe I am doing a disservice to Neanderthals. :D

Yes you were. Remember, human beings were descended from neanderthals. Motoring primates... well, who cares.