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Work often defines and refines us, but what happens when we have too much of it? A new study by scientists from Australia and Japan reveals surprising findings – after the age of 40, excessive work load can significantly reduce our cognitive performance. That means excessive work can negatively affect our memory, reasoning ability and mental activity, which lowers our productivity.
How does work affect cognitive abilities?
The research team examined more than 6,500 Australians over the age of 40 to find out how long working hours affect their cognitive performance. The results showed an interesting relationship between the number of hours worked per week and intelligence. If participants worked less than 25 hours a week, work increased their mental capacity. However, once working hours exceeded 25 hours a week, there was a turning point and cognitive abilities began to worsen.
Why is there a decline after 40?
Researchers believe that the key factors influencing this change are stress and lack of sleep. At first work stimulates the brain, but once a certain threshold is crossed, physical and psychological stress begins to prevail and leads to the opposite effect. This phenomenon appears to be particularly pronounced in people over 40 who face not only work pressure but often also family obligations, such as caring for children or elderly parents.
According to scientist Colin McKenzie of Keio University in Japan, younger people’s ability for brain regeneration is stronger, and therefore they are more resistant to long working hours. In older people, however, intensive work can have a much deeper impact on the brain and its functions.
How long a working week is ideal?
The study’s results suggest that after the age of 40 it may be most productive to work only three days a week, about 25 hours. This part-time work supports maintaining cognitive abilities and prevents overload. Working more and longer does not increase productivity, but rather decreases it.
What does this imply?
In connection with the increasing retirement age worldwide, this study brings an important message: less work can mean a higher quality of life and productivity. For people over 40, three working days a week can become the ideal solution to stay effective while also taking care of their mental health.
These findings could serve as a stimulus for reflection not only for individuals but also for companies that are trying to optimize the work performance of their employees.
