For years, it has been widely claimed that the human brain does not fully mature until the age of 25, yet researchers say there is little evidence to support this familiar assertion. A new study published in Nature Communications offers a different perspective. After analysing more than 4,000 brain scans from people aged between newborn and 90, scientists have identified five distinct “eras” of brain development, divided by four key neurological turning points that tend to occur at broadly similar ages.
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According to the findings, the brain’s transition into adulthood appears to take place well after the age of 30. Lead researcher Dr Alexa Mousley told the University of Cambridge: “Many of us look back and recognise that our lives unfold in phases. It seems our brains go through similar eras too.”
The 2025 paper proposes five developmental stages: childhood (birth to around nine), adolescence (nine to 32), adulthood (32 to 66), early ageing (66 to 83), and late ageing (from 83 onwards). Surprisingly, the study suggests that the brain’s “adult era” — the longest developmental stage — does not begin until roughly 32.
“Around that age, we see the most significant directional shift in neural wiring, more so than at any other transition point,” Dr Mousley explained. “Puberty clearly marks the beginning of adolescence, but scientifically, its end has always been harder to define. Based on brain structure alone, adolescent-style changes persist into the early thirties.”
This adult period is associated with greater neurological stability, a levelling-off in intelligence and personality traits, and more distinct separation between different brain regions.
Dr Mousley added: “Although we know brain connectivity is vital to development, we still lack a clear, lifelong overview of how and why it changes. These eras offer valuable context, helping us understand what the brain may excel at — or be vulnerable to — at various life stages. It may also shed light on why certain conditions arise, from childhood learning challenges to dementia in older age.”
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For some, the research may also bring quiet reassurance — suggesting there is still time, neurologically speaking, to indulge in youthful interests or questionable life choices for a few more years.
