Final answer:
Verbal and mathematical abilities generally start to decline in middle adulthood (40s to 60s), with notable decreases in cognitive abilities occurring in late adulthood (60s onwards). Lifestyle choices like regular exercise and proper nutrition can help minimize this decline.
Step-by-step explanation:
The decline in verbal and mathematical abilities generally begins in middle adulthood, which typically extends from the 40s to the 60s. Physical and sensory decline begin around this time, and can affect cognitive abilities. Cognitive skills, including mathematical and verbal skills, continue to expand in childhood and usually reach their peak in early adulthood, before starting a slow decline in middle age.
In late adulthood, from the 60s onwards, this decline becomes more noticeable. Aging affects all senses, with significant declines observed by age 50 that continue thereafter. Consequently, brain functions may no longer operate at optimal levels, and problems such as memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease may occur in the later years.
However, it's important to note that these declines can be minimized with proper exercise, nutrition, and active lifestyle. Additionally, there is no statistically significant difference between the cognitive abilities of males and females.
Learn more about Cognitive Decline