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Multilingualism Slows Brain Aging by 13 Years
6 Jul
Summary
- Speaking four languages can make brains appear 13 years younger.
- Higher language proficiency and earlier acquisition aid brain health.
- Language learning benefits the brain at any age, even if difficult.
New research indicates that the number of languages a person speaks can impact their brain's aging process. A study utilizing neuroimaging technology analyzed 728 participants and developed a "brain ageing clock." Subsequent analysis of 144 individuals with varying multilingualism levels revealed significant findings.
Participants who spoke two languages exhibited brains aging six years slower than monolinguals. This benefit increased to seven years for trilingual individuals and an impressive 13 years for those speaking four languages. The research also found that higher language proficiency and earlier acquisition of a second language further delayed brain aging.
Experts emphasize that these findings suggest a gradient effect, where the depth and duration of language experience are crucial. The study reinforces that engaging in effortful learning, such as acquiring new languages, contributes to maintaining cognitive function and can help keep brains younger for longer.
