But, as this graphic shows, peaking happens throughout our entire life. And good for us that a lot of it happens at 50 or after—arithmetic skills (50), understanding people’s emotions (51), life satisfaction (69 and also 23), vocabulary (71), happiness with your body (74), and psychological well-being (82). This last point is particularly true during the pandemic (see the second graphic below).

I need to remind my Spanish teacher that my “learning a new language” skills peaked at age 7. And the next time I see you and don’t seem to remember your name, just remember that peaked at 22.