Story perspectives

Super-Agers Generate Double Neurons, Stay Sharp into 90s

2/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

New research from the University of Illinois College of Medicine shows that older adults labeled 'super-agers' generate twice as many new neurons in the hippocampus as typical older adults.
The study, published in Nature, notes that super-agers keep cognitive sharpness into their 80s and 90s and exhibit a distinct 'resilience signature' in the brain.
Researchers acknowledge study limitations but say the findings highlight the role of cognitive engagement and physical activity for brain health.

1 of 1

Story summary

New research from the University of Illinois College of Medicine shows that older adults labeled 'super-agers' generate twice as many new neurons in the hippocampus as typical older adults.
The study, published in Nature, notes that super-agers keep cognitive sharpness into their 80s and 90s and exhibit a distinct 'resilience signature' in the brain.
Researchers acknowledge study limitations but say the findings highlight the role of cognitive engagement and physical activity for brain health.