Scientists have discovered that the brain's short-range wiring may help keep the mind sharp even as gray matter shrinks with age. Gray matter loss is a normal part of aging, but its effects on cognition vary widely from person to person.
The study, reported by ScienceDaily, found that healthier connections just beneath the brain's surface were linked to better language skills. These local connections also appeared to dampen the negative influence of gray matter loss, suggesting they play a protective role.
The findings point to short-range wiring as a potentially important factor in maintaining cognitive function in later life. Further research would be needed to understand how these connections change over time and whether they can be strengthened.