NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — With the average age of the American farmer hovering near 60, rural America is facing a demographic reality in which cognitive sharpness — not just physical ability — matters for managing land, livestock, and family legacy.
A new, 25-year study from Northwestern University highlights a group known as “SuperAgers,” individuals aged 80 and older whose cognitive function rivals that of people decades younger. Researchers found that these high-performing elders exhibit less brain volume loss and show markedly higher social engagement, with more of the rare von Economo neurons, which are tied to social processing and resilience.
The scientists emphasize that social interaction appears to strengthen brain networks as much as formal “mental exercise.” Multigenerational farms and rural communities already rely on strong personal networks — co-ops, church groups, auctions, feed stores — and this research provides a medical backing for why those connections matter.
Neurologists involved say that structured social activity, lifelong learning, and purposeful routines all contribute to catch-up-resiliency in cognitive aging, while isolation can be “as bad for your health as smoking,” in the words of one geriatric expert.
Farm-Level Takeaway: For aging operators and their rural neighbors, staying socially engaged is a practical strategy to preserve decision-making capacity and farm vitality.
Tony St. James
If you are thinking about making substantial gifts and/or doing so in a complicated fashion, make sure to get good professional advice beforehand. In his latest Firm to Farm blog post, RFD-TV Agri-Legal Expert Roger McEowen tackles the complex rules surrounding financial gifts, charitable donations and estate transfer.
December 15, 2023 03:12 PM
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But, what does “detached and disinterested” mean? When is a transfer of funds a gift — at least in the eyes of the IRS? That is the topic of today’s Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV’s Agri-Legal Expert Roger A.McEowen.
December 13, 2023 11:07 AM
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Just how much are probate fees? How are they determined? That is the topic of today’s Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV’s Agri-Legal Expert Roger A. McEowen.
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The distinction between co-tenancy and joint tenancy and why it matters — is the topic of today’s Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV Agri-Legal Expert Roger McEowen.
December 11, 2023 02:13 PM
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The State of Louisiana is known as a major wintering location for North American waterfowl. However, a new visitor — a species of Whistling Ducks hailing from South America — may pose a problem to native species.
November 09, 2023 01:52 PM
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In honor of Veterans Day this weekend, we wanted to take a moment to highlight an incredible program connecting our great nation’s heroes with agriculture!
November 08, 2023 01:54 PM
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