Exploring Cognitive Super Aging and Brain Science with Dr. Tamar Gefen

In this episode of Research Renaissance, host Deborah Westphal sits down with Dr. Tamar Gefen, an Associate Professor at the Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease at Northwestern University. Dr. Gefen, a 2023 Toffler Scholar, shares insights into her groundbreaking work on dementia syndromes and age-related cognitive disorders, including her fascinating research on cognitive "super agers."

Key Discussion Points:

• Dr. Gefen’s personal journey to becoming a clinical neuropsychologist and her passion for studying the human brain.
• What it means to be a neuropsychologist and how it combines the study of brain structure with behavior and function.
• An exploration of cognitive super agers: individuals over 80 whose memory functions as if they were decades younger.
• The significance of brain donation in Dr. Gefen’s research, as well as the emotional and spiritual connection she feels to the work.
• Insights into her research lab’s ongoing studies and how it’s contributing to the field of neurology and cognitive health.
• The importance of identifying modifiable risk factors for dementia, and how individuals can reduce their risk by focusing on heart and brain health.

Key Quotes:

"I feel like I’m among tiny gods lined up in a fridge... These organs were the source of life for every human that made that precious donation." – Dr. Tamar Gefen

"Aging suffers from poor marketing, and we need to show that aging can be graceful and fun." – Dr. Tamar Geffen

Thank you for joining us on this insightful journey into brain science. Be sure to subscribe to Research Renaissance for more conversations at the cutting edge of neurological research. Until next time, onward and upward!

To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org.

Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.