Intelligence Peaks in Midlife, Study Finds
New research from psychology experts suggests that our cognitive and personality strengths reach their zenith later in life than commonly believed. A study conducted by researchers in Australia and Poland pinpointed the age range of 55 too 60 as the peak of overall intelligence.
The study, published in the journal Intelligence, assessed over 5,000 adults between the ages of 18 and 99. researchers developed a “cognitive functioning and personality index” encompassing not only conventional cognitive skills like memory, reasoning, and processing speed, but also crucial elements such as emotional intelligence, moral reasoning, empathy, and intellectual curiosity.
While some cognitive abilities, such as processing speed and working memory, begin to decline around age 30, the researchers found that overall cognitive and personal functioning continues to develop untill midlife. “Our results show that overall cognitive and personal functioning continues to develop until mid-life,” the study authors state.
This finding “challenges many conventional assumptions about age and ability, and suggests that midlife may represent the true peak of psychological readiness.” Interestingly, this peak aligns with the average age of peak professional achievement observed in other research.
The study acknowledges that after age 60, certain cognitive abilities do diminish. However, the researchers emphasize that other vital components of intelligence – including wisdom, emotional regulation, and moral understanding – continue to evolve and effectively compensate for these losses. Maintaining mental sharpness throughout life, they conclude, is best achieved through ongoing intellectual stimulation, curiosity, and consistent social interaction.