"The reason for the dearth of older hackers is the same reason there are few people running marathons at age 60 or 70: As we age, our bodies and minds degrade."
That is an overgeneralization that could lead to needlessly depressing conclusions. Research is pointing in directions that are much more encouraging and that vary tremendously from field to field. If you are interested in this subject, you'll definitely want to see the summary that the following link, which, among other things, says that the output of scientists appears to peak in their 40's and decline only in their 70's (assuming, I would guess, that they are choosing to continue to pursue their vocation):
0. bit.ly/1kzXKIz
To help maintain your brain power as you age, research is pointing in the direction that the best thing you can do is, perhaps counterintuitively, physical exercise:
That is an overgeneralization that could lead to needlessly depressing conclusions. Research is pointing in directions that are much more encouraging and that vary tremendously from field to field. If you are interested in this subject, you'll definitely want to see the summary that the following link, which, among other things, says that the output of scientists appears to peak in their 40's and decline only in their 70's (assuming, I would guess, that they are choosing to continue to pursue their vocation):
0. bit.ly/1kzXKIz
To help maintain your brain power as you age, research is pointing in the direction that the best thing you can do is, perhaps counterintuitively, physical exercise:
1. http://www.sciencedaily.com—081118071144.htm
2. http://www.kurzweilai.net—how-exercise-boosts-brain-health
3. http://www.brainfacts.org—physical-exercise-beefs-up-the-bra...
4. http://www.nytimes.com—how-exercise-could-lead-to-a-better-b...
5. http://well.blogs.nytimes.com—ask-well-exercises-to-prevent-...
6. http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/10/26/exercise-may-protec...
In contrast, claims that "brain exercises" actually help are quite controversial.
Also, there's evidence that caloric reduction reduces cognitive decline:
7. http://www.natureworldnews.com/articles/2036/20130522/low-ca...
8. http://www.psychiatrictimes.com/articles/sirtuin-love-calori...