The Secret Life of the Grown-up Brain: The Surprising Talents of the Middle-aged Mind Book

Introduction: The Changing Landscape of Middle Age xiii

Part 1 The Powers That Be

1 Am I Losing My Mind?: Sometimes, but the Gains Beat the Losses 3

2 The Best Brains of Our Lives: A Bit Slower, but So Much Better 12

3 A Brighter Place: I'm So Glad I'm Not Young Anymore 28

4 Experience. Judgment. Wisdom.: Do We Really Know What We're Talking About? 41

5 The Middle in Motion: The Midlife Crisis Conspiracy 54

Part 2 The Inner Workings

6 What Changes with Time: Glitches the Brain Learns to Deal With 69

7 Two Brains Are Better Than One: Especially Inside One Head 91

8 Extra Brainpower: A Reservoir to Tap When Needed 104

Part 3 Healthier Brains

9 Keep Moving and Keep Your Wits: Exercise Builds Brains 125

10 Food for Thought: And a Few Other Substances, as Well 144

11 The Brain Gym: Toning Up Your Circuits 170

Epilogue: A New Place for Better, Longer Lives 191

Acknowledgments 199

Sources 201

Index 221