Children born to mothers over 40 may enjoy certain advantages compared to their peers. A study from the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research and the London School of Economics examined 1.5 million Swedish individuals born between 1960 and 1991. The research suggests that kids born to older mothers tend to be taller, more educated, and score higher on standardized tests.
To ensure accurate comparisons, the study focused on siblings with the same parents while analyzing factors like academic performance, physical fitness, and height. Findings indicate that the benefits of being born to an older mother outweigh potential risks. Experts believe that waiting to have children may contribute to better outcomes in these areas.
Parents in their forties may be more focused on education, creating an environment where learning is a priority. This could explain why children of older mothers often achieve higher academic success. Mikko Myrskylä, Director at the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research and lead researcher, said, “The benefits associated with being born in a later year outweigh the individual risk factors arising from being born to an older mother.”
Additionally, older mothers bring life experience and wisdom that younger parents may not have. While pregnancy and childbirth can be challenging at any age, it does not necessarily mean higher risk for women in their forties. For those delaying parenthood, this study offers reassurance that waiting may come with unexpected advantages.
Picture: Women over 40 might make better mothers (Microsoft Designer)
