A new article published in the journal Trens in Cognitive Sciences analyzed brain changes in mothers and the long-term effects of motherhood on cognitive reserve.

Mothers experience long-lasting cognitive adaptations that can be present throughout their lives. The ongoing environmental complexity of motherhood, with new responsibilities and increased cognitive load increases and adapts as the child grows.

The authors of the study summarize that exposure to a more complex environment during long periods of time is beneficial for the brains of mothers in humans and animals. These findings suggest that the surge in complex environments in motherhood may result in increased cognitive reserve in late life.

The authors of the study conclude that the neurodevelopmental period of “matrescence” (becoming a mother) is associated with better cognitive performance and “younger-looking” brains later in life.

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