Should we be worried about older politicians?

As Joe Biden and Donald Trump vie for the 2024 US presidential election, the age of both candidates has become a hot topic. Biden, who turned 81 in November 2023, and Trump, who is 77, are the oldest individuals to ever seek the office of US President. This has sparked discussions about whether they might be too old to lead. In September 2023, Pauline Newman, a 96-year-old US federal judge, was suspended from hearing new cases due to concerns about her ability to serve. Similarly, in the US Senate, Chuck Grassley, aged 90, and Bernie Sanders, aged 82, are also facing questions about their age and fitness for office. Biden and Trump have different approaches to addressing concerns about their age. Biden emphasizes his long career and the experience it has given him, while Trump highlights his cognitive abilities and physical fitness, often mentioning his prowess on the golf course. The debate over their age is not just about physical health but also mental fitness. Neuroscience and psychology suggest that cognitive performance can vary widely as people age. Some skills may decline, but others, like vocabulary and the ability to synthesize information, can improve. There are even 'super agers' who maintain cognitive functions similar to much younger individuals. The question of how old is 'too old' to lead is complex. In the US, the 'Normal Retirement Age' is around 65, but this can vary in other countries. For instance, the average life expectancy for men in the US is 73, while in Cameroon, it is 60. This means that the perception of when someone is too old to lead can differ based on cultural and societal factors. Despite the challenges of aging, there are benefits to having an older brain. Older individuals often have more knowledge and experience, which can help them make better decisions. They may not learn new information as quickly, but they can integrate it into their existing knowledge base more effectively. Some scientists argue that political leaders should undergo cognitive screenings to ensure they are fit for office. This idea is controversial, with some seeing it as a necessary measure and others viewing it as discriminatory. Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley has called for politicians over the age of 75 to undergo cognitive tests, but this proposal has faced criticism. The debate over the age of political leaders is likely to continue as the 2024 election approaches. Some polls indicate that many voters believe it is not ideal for someone over 75 to hold the office of President. However, others argue that experience and wisdom are more important than age. Ultimately, it will be up to the voters to decide whether Biden and Trump are too old to lead the country. This ongoing discussion highlights the broader issue of how society views aging and the capabilities of older individuals. As life expectancy increases and more people continue to work later in life, the question of age and leadership will remain relevant.