Global health. The current scenario and future perspectives

241 Recent discoveries highlight the longevity-promoting effects of ongoing neurogenesis in the human brain. Research indicates that our brain can generate thousands of neurons daily and we can maintain our cognitive capacity as we age. This regeneration happens in the amygdala, hypothalamus, olfactory bulb and cerebral cortex. Early findings suggest that neuron renewal occurs in other areas of the brain as well. For instance, Maura Boldrini and her team at Columbia University discovered that many older individuals retain cognitive and emotional capacities with neurons as healthy as those of young people, particularly in the hippocampus, which is crucial for emotions and cognition (Boldrini et al., 2018). In conclusion, the potential for healthy and active aging exists, and the challenge is to extend this opportunity equitably to the entire population. The Baby Boomers and Gerontolescence The generation known as baby boomers is currently reaching the age at which retirement was customary. This generation was and continues to be revolutionary, having fought for social and sexual freedom in the 1960s and redefined the role of women in society. They were at the forefront of movements against racism, pro feminism and against homophobia. Never has a generation reached the age of 65 so well-informed, with better incomes, in good health condition and with a robust activism background. With this legacy, it cannot be assumed that they will approach old age the same way previous generations did. The baby boomer generation transformed their youth into a period of experimentation, creativity and rebellion and redefined the role and impact of young people in society. They are currently redefining what it means to be an older adult. Their influence was decisive in the emergence of “gerontolescence“, a completely new transition period in human history. Given the number of older adults, it is unlikely that they will tolerate being ignored or not considered in their expectations. It is noteworthy that while typical adolescence lasts five or six years, gerontolescence will last between 20 and 30 years. This extended period provides ample time to develop and define a completely new societal pattern. While it is essential to provide an appropriate place and network