My husband Thom grew up in a very religious household. A questioner by nature, he struggled to grasp what he was told without constantly asking for evidence. But one thing he heard stood out as absolutely true. Without a doubt, he knew deep in his heart and soul that the most prized possession on Earth, more precious than gold or jewels, had to be wisdom. The certainty of that awareness never wavered. As it turns out, new research appears to confirm that obtaining wisdom just might be central to what leads to a happy and healthy long life—in other words, a key to positive aging. And it’s likely that treasure is something all of us would like to experience in the years to come.
Whenever I am offered a new book to review I accept it with openminded skepticism. But when a new book combines both brain science and positive aging, how could I not be interested? Timeless—Nature’s Formula For Health And Longevity by Louis Cozolino does just that. Even better, it taught me how and why the pursuit of wisdom plays a major role in creating a life of health and well-being as we age.
According to author Louis Cozolino, most brain studies perpetuate ageism to all of our detriment. Instead of recognizing that the brain continues to change, adapt and grow throughout our entire lifetime, most brain study focuses almost exclusively on the young—and implies it is all downhill from there. Yet Cozolino says, “That our brains change throughout life makes sense; that all of the changes (as we age) are negative make no sense.”
Cozolino proposes, “What if, just like during adolescence, the brain goes through a series of modifications that prepare us for the challenges and responsibilities of each stage of life?” And in fact, what if those changes and adaptations are what set us up perfectly for becoming wise elders with a vital contribution to our communities, our world, and future generations?
One of Cozolino’s more interesting ideas is that our brains are not solitary mechanical objects in our individual bodies. He proposes that our brains are actually social organs deeply interconnected through our history, our relationships, and our environment. We did not become who we are today (regardless of our age) by ourselves alone but have instead evolved and adapted along with our environment and communities.
If that is true, then as we age within this social interconnected context, we have “a number of advantages when it comes to being wise.” Our “slower pace, broader perspective and years of experience” allow us to bring much more to any situation. We are also, “better equipped to integrate emotion, intellect, and intuition.” While our culture’s obsession with youth usually makes it seem that the young have all the advantages, this ignores the enormous contributions that elders have to offer the whole.
Cozolino points out several ways older brains have the advantage over younger brains:
- Young brain: Fast processing speed vs. Older brain: integrated and pragmatic problem-solving. Cozolino says, “…while younger pilots have the ability to react more quickly to emergency situations, older, more experienced pilots have the wisdom to avoid them in the first place.”
- Young brain: Can easily remember numbers, names, and facts. Vs Older Brain: Improved emotional and relational abilities.
- Young brain: Better explicit memory. Older Brain: Better implicit memory.
- Young brain: jumps to fast and singular conclusions. Older brain: understands that things are usually more complex than what meets the eye and is more comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty.
- Young brain: quick reflexes. Older brain: poised for reflection, contemplation, and integration.
- Young brain: looks for danger and what’s wrong. Older brain: recognizes the positive and finds it easier to forget the bad.
- Young brain: greater executive function and attention. Older brain: higher emotional stability, enhanced social judgment and empathy, and sustained attachment.
- Young brain: thinks it will live forever and often without consequences. Older brain: aware of mortality and the need for an inner life. According to Cozolino, “As we inevitably wrinkle and lose some of our energy, people with identities based on beauty and physical prowess are faced with having to discover new ways of valuing themselves. At a certain point in life, you have to jump off of your body and onto your spirit for the last act of life’s journey.”
- Young brain: talks about itself and what it wants. Older Brain: In contrast, Cozolino states, “Wise elders are storytellers.” He says, “As we age, the maturation of our brains maximizes our storytelling abilities, and we are driven to implant new thoughts, feelings and narratives into young minds, just as, earlier in life, we were driven to pass on our genes.”
But let’s get back to wisdom. Cozolino makes the case that wisdom is a blending of “intellectual and emotional intelligence in ways that focus on our common humanity.” Think of anyone you consider wise. People like Gandhi, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Helen Keller weren’t just smart, they also cared deeply about others and causes bigger than themselves. Cozolino goes on to say, “Social science research suggests that wisdom coalesces from a complex pattern of personality variables, life experience and inner growth. They (those who are wise) tend to have a rich internal life, good social skills and remain open to new experiences. People with wisdom are capable of sustaining their focus on a problem, as they consider its multiple dimensions along with their personal responsibility in the matter at hand.”
So, is wisdom guaranteed as we grow older? Unfortunately, no. Just read the newspaper or watch television. As Cozolino writes, “Greater age seems to be associated with wisdom only for those with higher levels of emotional development, moral reasoning and investment in other people.” The good news is that when we reach for wisdom our bodies and our brains benefit. He continues with, “…since wisdom reflects an integration of brain functioning, it should also correlate with better physical and mental health, mature psychological defenses, and life satisfaction.” In other words, seeking wisdom is good for our body, our mind, and our happiness.
Cozolino makes an excellent case for the value of becoming wise when he quotes a Native American elder. The elder begins by saying a big problem in the world today is that “the adults look to their children for answers while the elders are ignored and put in old folks’ homes.” But then he wonders, how then will children learn who they are, and what is really important? He goes on to say, “If all they see is television and movies, they will behave like bandits and cartoon animals.” And as elders, those without younger listeners to absorb their wisdom, will “become sad, lost and wither away.”
Instead, this Native American Elder recommends that the young and old both nurture each other within their tribe. He recommends:
“Each day, you must do something that strengthens your spirit and deepens your wisdom. This is how when you become old, you will have value to your tribe. This is your retirement plan. Right from the beginning of life, guide your thoughts, pick your friends, and choose your words wisely. Think of how to become a benefit to yourself and others when you are an old one. Make yourself a tree heavy with fruit and you will always find others gathered around you. These people will be your life’s riches.”
Just remember, such wisdom demands an agile brain that embraces flexibility, adaptation and constant challenge. It also requires an awareness of our connections and the ongoing need to communicate to thrive and survive. In fact, in terms of our brain, the worst thing we can tell ourselves is that we’ve earned the right to zone out, just focus on ourselves, and do whatever we want just to be safe and comfortable.
There is plenty more in this book about things we can do to enhance our longevity, but in my opinion, the messages that promote the idea that our brains have evolved to suit our longevity in community through wisdom is a powerful one. This message is important for those of us growing older as well as younger generations who will benefit from the wisdom that we embody. And let’s not forget that in certain circles, wisdom is considered more valuable than all the gold or jewels in the world. I don’t know if I’ll ever be considered wise, but I believe it would be a SMART intention for all of us as we face the days to come.
Okay, your turn. Is acquiring wisdom something you see as valuable? Why? And who are your role models? Please share in the comments below.
Wisdom is not something we are born with. It is that one thing that we continue to learn through out this life. Whether we are taught by an older , younger,or the in the now generation, wisdom can always be acquired. If learning from our mistakes allows us to understand not to make that same mistake again then we get wisdom from even our failures. The wisdom from being able to fall off a bike and fell some kind of pain may as well lead us to acquire wisdom through a painful situation. The wisdom we get through our upbringing equips us for our future and those decisions that we need to make for the life ahead.The wisdom we leave behind is a bigger inheritance that will last longer than money, a house, car, business, etc. It is our wisdom that ultimately makes us legendary for following generations and so on…
Hi Manuel. I love that, “It is our wisdom that ultimately makes us legendary for following generations…” How very wise of you to recognize that at your age. May we all grow wiser as the days go by so that we can share that with those who follow. ~Kathy
This is so interesting and makes perfect sense that our brains adjust, grow, ebb and flow as we age. I have never read more in the last few months as I soaked in so much information with which to create my class content and curriculum! Reading “new” management ideas coupled with my 35 years of experience I believe brought this new (to me) class into the 21st century (some old outdated ideas were still being taught). I also think that emotional intelligence plays a big role in this as well, as you mentioned. Funny that I don’t feel like a wise elder (LOL), but to my students I guess I am.
Hi Terri! How wonderful that you are able to bring both your considerable experience and all the new things you are learning into the classroom where you can share it with others. And who, if not us, should help bring in updated info where we have influence. I also think if we just start thinking of where we can act wise, and share wisdom, perhaps that will help with the unfolding of it within us? Embrace it and see where it leads! ~Kathy
Cozolino is doing some very interesting work in neuropsychology. I think that researchers have known for a long time that human cognition, emotional processes, and social intelligence develop over time and become more sophisticated and integrated as we develop/age. (However, this research has not always been well represented in popular media).
Although there have been great strides made in recent years in research on brain function, there is still a huge gulf between what we know about the physiology of the brain, and our psychological models for socio-cognitive functioning. Because we still know very little about how cognitive development maps onto brain processes, I think it is important to make a distinction between the brain as a physical organ, and aspects of human cognitive functioning such as decision-making, wisdom, and learning.
That said, I agree with you (and Cozolino) that striving for wisdom is a worthy goal, and that if we seek wisdom throughout life as we interact with others, we are more likely to live longer, better lives. This is so because the development of our mental processes (thinking, social responses) is both cognitively (Piaget) and socially (Vygotsky) constructed though our experiences. What this means is that we actually shape our own capacity for thinking by the kinds of intellectual tasks we engage in, and through our interpersonal interactions.
Jude
Hi Jude! Again I want to thank you for adding some depth to this conversation. And I agree that strides are being made but there is still so much to discover. One thing I thought was unique about Cozolino was his observation of how connected we are and that the brain is a “social organ” not just a biological one. And an important aspect of that social organ was the connection we have to one another and to younger generations. In his opinion our brains have evolved to enhance that connection to the past and the future–and obviously, wisdom is a huge part of it. While I doubt that he would disagree that “we actually shape our own capacity for thinking by the kinds of intellectual tasks we engage in, and through our interpersonal interactions,” in my opinion, he took it off in a different direction. The way I understood it was that our experiences and interpersonal interactions may help our brains develop, but that our minds inherently contain the seeds to evolve in a way that deepens our connection to others. And like I said, he does explore lots of evolving brain science, but his connection idea was something very intriguing to me. Since reading it I have really been dwelling on what it means to reach for wisdom and how I can make that more a part of my life. Thanks again for all your thoughts in this conversation! ~Kathy
I never thought that younger people would be smarter or have more “wisdom”. To the contrary… I have always had respect for older generations, realizing what they must have gone through in their life and how they collected experiences and wisdom younger generations could learn for. I always saw older people as wiser people. And, I like that quote of the American Indian elder.
Yes, wisdom is important, and one can/should improve on that every day, young or old. Why is wisdom important? Because it stimulates curiosity and not only improves our knowledge intellectually and offers the means for engaging discussions, but it teaches us skills that might come in handy.
Hi Liesbet! I think your perception might be clouded by the fact that you were raised in Europe rather than the U.S. 🙂 I think it is interesting that you believe that “wisdom is important, and one can/should improve on that every day, young or old. Why is wisdom important? Because it stimulates curiosity and not only improves our knowledge intellectually and offers the means for engaging discussions, but it teaches us skills that might come in handy.” Not that I disagree with you, but I had never thought of it quite that way. And yes, I certainly hope it would lead to both more interesting conversations AND more skills that are useful in the days ahead. Thank you for that new insight. ~Kathy
Kathy, I too love the old vs young brain comparisons. This book has been put on my to-read list as I am also a lover of brain science. I want to better understand the nuance differences between knowledge and wisdom. Thanks for great summary.
Hi Pat! I’m happy that I have been able to share a bit of the info in this book in a way that intrigues you. There is a bit of repetition from other info available about positive aging, but I thought on several things (along with the ideas of wisdom and our interconnectedness) that makes it definitely worth a read for those of us who love this kind of information. If you do read it, pop back over and let me know what you thought! ~Kathy
Hi, Kathy – This is a very timely post for me. I was just reading some trending research that has stated, as a general rule, older people have better solutions to conflict. They tend to argue less and anger less easily than younger people. I am very interested in reading more!
Hi Donna! Isn’t it exciting that so much new research is focusing on the advantages of aging rather than the detriments? Finally!!!! There seem to be more and more writers and influencers working to change the ageism that is rampant these days–but to me, the best way to do that is to start showing people all the good that can come as we age rather than just getting people to stop being ageist. Once younger generations realize that they too have been sold a bill of goods that wasn’t true, then we will all be lifted by the knowledge. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. ~Kathy
Hi Kathy what a great book and message and definitely aligns with how I view the aging process. Today I’m MC and Guest Speaker at an event and I will be discussing ways to have an Ageless Attitude. I’m also participating in the Mindful in May Challenge and an interview earlier this week discussed how we can keep our brains more alert, and even perhaps turn back time if we exercise them through using our brain but also by being mindful as well as showing generosity and kindness which I thought was a wonderful combination. Thank you for the review of the book which I will be keen to read. Enjoy your weekend.
Hi Sue! I am so happy to hear you will be speaking and spreading the news on the benefits that come from aging. I’m seeing more and more of it, as I’m sure you are too. We are living in exciting times for sure. The author of this book does mention many of the more common ways to keep our brain healthy like exercise and the right diet, but he does have a new perspective that I think you would appreciate. Pick it up if you get a chance and let me know what you thought. And YES to a great weekend for us all. ~Kathy
I loved the young vs old brains you listed! SO true. Starting new hobbies or learning new things is always important for your mind as is being open to new ideas contrary to yours. Just because someone doesn’t think the way you do does not mean their views are not valid.
4 years ago I took an intensive course that pretty much occupied my mind and time for 4 months having to study 6 days a week. Other people finish the course in 2 years. I did it because I was interested and wanted the intellectual challenge. Some folks thought I was crazy since it could lead to a job but the monetary benefit was not my goal but the understanding and knowledge was what got me. I think of course it expanded my brain!
Hi Haralee! Good for you for challenging yourself. The book was a good reminder to me that I probably should challenge myself more than I do. I tend to do what I have to do with my website and blog and that is nearly always a challenge, and I’ve been upping my game in yoga and taking two classes a week which is definitely having an influence, but with some brain things…like math and memory I tend to let them slide. Cozolina says that really isn’t the best thing to do…he says, “It’s clear that our brains are organs of adaption, embedded in a body, and fundamentally social in nature. Thus, in order to maximize the brain’s functioning, it and we require property physical, intellectual and interpersonal stimulation for a long and healthy life. This means that everyone at every age should be encouraged to be active, engaged, and challenged to the limits of their capabilities. Our brains need to receive the message that adaptation is still necessary and that neural growth is still required. This is the opposite of the message that one has earned the right to do nothing.” ~Kathy
I really enjoyed the Young Brains vs Old Brains comparisons. At my age (66) I find that I am (happily) less attached to who listens to me or whether or not they agree with my ideas of how things “should” be done.
Hi Mindy! Thank you. I think it is so important for us all to spread the good news about what we gain as we age instead of the usual–too bad, it’s all downhill from here! Our brains are NOT the same as when we were young but in many ways, they are much better. Surely some of that newfound evolution is part of the reason why we all stop caring as much about what others think? Maybe that is another attribute of wisdom? ~Kathy
I can’t tell you how much I love this quote: As we inevitably wrinkle and lose some of our energy, people with identities based on beauty and physical prowess are faced with having to discover new ways of valuing themselves. At a certain point in life, you have to jump off of your body and onto your spirit for the last act of life’s journey.” The Young Brain vs. Old Brain comparisons were so interesting and rang very true.
Hi Janis! Yes! Isn’t that a great quote. The author actually has quite a number of interesting insights into aging and even a bit of “rightsizing” as far as our need to focus on what really matters rather than distractions and entertainment. (of course I tend to see rightsizing everywhere so that’s probably not a surprise!) But I particularly like books that I read with a pen in my hand so I can underline all the things that seem pertinent to me…and yes, this book has TONS of lines. Glad you liked it! ~Kathy
Being smart vs. Being wise… Wisdom is the thoughtful, caring, positive application and use of the smartness you have obtained. Yes, this is certainly one aspect of positive aging and happiness.
Hi Kimberly! Yes! Intellect is very different from wisdom. And I like how you played it into smartness….as long as everyone remembers that SMART stands for “Sustainable, Meaningful, Aware, Responsible and Thankful” which sometimes looks pretty wise if you can keep them all in perspective. Thanks for your comment. ~Kathy
Experience and perspective define wisdom for me. And those terms, obviously, are an outcome of age, although some young people appear to come into this world with a miraculous store of wisdom! I like Cozolino’s analysis of how ‘young brain’ and ‘old brain’ think, and how the perspectives differ. Very creative, and a useful resource! Wow! Good book!
Hi Diane! Yes, to be honest when I first started reading it I thought it would be a little too heavy for me (and my audience!) but it turned out to be filled with science AND lots of other stories that made it very accessible. I also agree that some young people do seem to have a lot of wisdom for their age, but I believe that the wisdom of elders is being largely ignored and downplayed. Rather than seeing older people as a resource for experience and deeper perspective, we are often being portrayed as either a large consumer demographic OR, a problem to be taken care of because it will be such a “drain” on society as we all get older. Putting a focus on our wisdom–collective and individual–helps us all value and appreciate our years rather than try to hide or run from them! I do recommend this book to anyone who enjoys brain stuff as much as I do! ~Kathy
Great piece Kathy! I just wrote a piece for Boomer Cafe along the same lines! I ask: Do Boomers have a responsibility to pass on knowledge and wisdom, and will anyone listen?
Hi Laura Lee! Great minds think alike, right? I look forward to reading your article as well. I think this is a message that we all should write about and share with one another. It’s good for us and good for each other. Thanks for stopping by! ~Kathy