Recent study revealed that our mental faculties start to decline in late twenties. Study showed at 22, human mind is at apex of mental powers however these abilities start declining after 27.

Research team led by Professor Timothy Salthouse of Virginia University analyzed data collected from 2,000 healthy people aged 18-60 during his seven year study. To estimate mental abilities of study subjects they were given test like solving puzzles, recalling words and story details and spotting patterns in letters and symbols.

Data analysis revealed that the score were highest at the average age of 22 in nine out of 12 tests. Marked decline in mental abilities was observed at 27 in tests of brain speed, reasoning and visual puzzle-solving ability.

Professor Salthouse said his findings suggested "some aspects of age-related cognitive decline begin in healthy, educated adults when they are in their 20s and 30s."

He added that the results suggested that therapies designed to prevent or reverse age-related conditions may need to start earlier, long before people retire.