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
According to the National Council of Farmers Cooperatives (NCFC), President and CEO Chuck Conner says, there is only one other option besides addressing ag labor shortages.
September 18, 2025 01:10 PM
·
For rural communities, this shift could mean new housing options for farmworkers and young families priced out of metro markets.
September 18, 2025 11:37 AM
·
Sen. Roger Marshall, a founding member and chairman of the Make America Healthy Again caucus, joined us with his thoughts on the commission’s latest report and the key ag-related issues.
September 17, 2025 04:36 PM
·
The Fertilizer Research Act, reintroduced by Sens. Grassley, Ernst, and Baldwin, would direct the USDA to study and publish public reports on competition and pricing trends in the fertilizer market.
September 16, 2025 05:08 PM
·
Allowing year-round sales of E15 nationally could deliver billions in economic gains, according to a new study from the Renewable Fuels Association and National Corn Growers Association.
September 16, 2025 02:29 PM
·
September 16, 2025 02:25 PM
Bottom line: Despite all the efforts advocates make, workers are still making less money.
September 12, 2025 01:33 PM
·
U.S. producers are holding off on equipment investments amid financial pressure, market uncertainty, a rising demand for diesel, and growing desperation for trade wins.
September 12, 2025 11:18 AM
·
How many burgers could you buy instead of a house?
September 12, 2025 10:04 AM
·
