In partnership with
🔬TODAY’S BREAKTHROUGH
Even as the brain ages, language understanding stays strong. A new study shows that shifts in alpha and beta brain oscillations help older adults preserve semantic processing, the ability to understand word meaning.
The Discovery:
Using magnetoencephalography (MEG) in 154 adults aged 21–87, researchers found that older adults had stronger alpha and beta oscillatory responses in language-related brain regions. These neural adaptations acted as a compensatory mechanism, supporting verbal fluency despite aging.
The Science:
Performance: Accuracy on a semantic judgment task remained high across all ages (~95%), and older adults were as fast as younger peers for related word pairs.
Oscillations: Aging increased alpha (8–14 Hz) and beta (14–26 Hz) responses across left perisylvian cortex, anterior cingulate, and supramarginal gyrus.
Compensation: Stronger oscillations in the left perisylvian region suppressed the typical age-related decline in verbal fluency.
Hemispheric shifts: Findings align with brain aging models (HAROLD, CRUNCH), showing more bilateral recruitment and stronger activity to maintain performance.
Condition effects: Semantic relatedness (e.g., star–sky) triggered stronger oscillatory responses than unrelated pairs (e.g., game–gorilla).
Your Action:
Cognitive resilience is trainable. Protect your language and memory networks by keeping the brain active with reading, learning new skills, and rich conversations.
Combine this with lifestyle habits, exercise, diet, sleep, and stress management, to strengthen brain adaptability.
Bottom Line:
Alpha and beta oscillations adapt with age, helping preserve language and meaning-making even in older adults.
Source:
Age-related alterations in alpha and beta oscillations support preservation of semantic processing in healthy aging. npj Aging. Hall MC, Rempe MP, Casagrande CC, Wilson TW, et al.
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41514-025-00263-8
How was today’s newsletter?
A Quick Favor:
We kindly ask you to check out the sponsor(s) that made this newsletter possible. Your support helps us continue sharing valuable insights and empowering your wellness journey.
Practical AI for Business Leaders
The AI Report is the #1 daily read for professionals who want to lead with AI, not get left behind.
You’ll get clear, jargon-free insights you can apply across your business—without needing to be technical.
400,000+ leaders are already subscribed.
👉 Join now and work smarter with AI.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR WORK
— Capilli Eternal
Disclaimer:
This newsletter is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen.