Artificial intelligence is advancing so fast, it’s natural to wonder how it’s shaping our brains—kids’ and adults’ alike. But here’s an optimistic twist I recently came across from AI neuroscientist and author Sarah Baldeo: AI, when used the right way, can actually make your brain stronger and sharper.
The neurological impact of outsourcing thinking to AI
There’s some concern that relying too much on AI might suppress our brain functions. As revealed in Sarah’s research, if people simply outsource their critical thinking and problem-solving entirely to AI, certain brain areas linked to executive functions and working memory actually show decreased activity. For example, a MIT study found that over 83% of people who offloaded essay writing fully to AI couldn’t complete it on their own. That’s a big red flag about losing our mental muscles if we get too dependent.
But here’s the fascinating flip side: when AI is used to automate routine tasks, instead of outright replacing thinking, parts of the brain connected to self-awareness, cognitive agility, and conflict monitoring light up even more. In other words, AI can free up mental bandwidth and boost our capacity for more complex, creative thinking.
How to approach AI in a way that helps your brain thrive
So what does it mean to ‘‘use AI the right way”? The advice here is clear: think of AI as a conversation partner or an assistant rather than a crutch. Use it for tasks like research, generating ideas, or planning, so you remain actively engaged. For example, instead of just copy-pasting your email responses into AI and letting it churn out the replies, try writing a draft yourself. Then utilize AI to polish and improve that draft. This practice keeps your brain involved and sharp.
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It’s also recommended to explore different AI tools and even build your own simple models if you can. Doing so demystifies how AI works, making it a less scary, more empowering experience. A hands-on approach helps us develop a better understanding of the technology and encourages smarter use.
It’s never too late to start with AI
A big myth I’ve encountered is that older generations might be ‘‘too far behind” in tech adoption. But neurological age and biological age aren’t always linked. Surprisingly, some younger people have brains wired with less agility than some older adults who remain mentally sharp and adaptable. Your personality and willingness to experiment are more important than your calendar age when it comes to adopting AI.
Feeling overwhelmed or scared? That’s perfectly normal—humans have always reacted this way when new inventions like the telephone, cars, or even fire came along. The difference now is the pace: technology evolves in months, not decades. So the key is to start small. For instance, asking an AI to draft a project plan or help organize your holiday to-do list can be an easy way to dip your toes in. This lets you see how AI can automate boring tasks while your unique human skills remain front and center.
When AI is used the right way, it can free your brain for higher-order thinking and boost your cognitive agility.
So, instead of fearing AI as a threat to our brains, it’s worth embracing it as a tool that can future-proof your mental fitness, if you engage with it cautiously and creatively.
If you want to dive deeper, the book 100 Ways to Future Proof Your Brain offers many practical tips on blending AI and neuroscience for cognitive growth.
At the end of the day, it’s about mastering the art of co-evolution with AI—letting it handle mundane work, while your brain stays active, curious, and continually learning.
