Learning Multiple Languages Can Delay Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease at Older Age

Research shows that learning additional languages can delay the onset and diagnosis of dementia for as long as four and a half years. For many years scientists have been investigating the benefits of learning a new language, and there are many. You may be aware of some of the advantages that learning languages brings, but others may come as a surprise. Previous studies have shown the merits of bilingualism and highlighted factors such as i mproved cognitive ability, problem solving, multitasking and memory. It even improves your decision making skills. But did you know that learning a new language does not just improve the function of your brain but can also keep it healthy? By learning a second language you are actually protecting your brain from developing damaging diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Study on the Benefits of Bilingualism in Dementia Patients

On the 7 November 2013 the results of new research were brought to the attention of the public in the news, claiming that speaking a second language may delay dementia onset significantly. In this particular study nearly 650 different dementia patients were assessed, taking into account variables like gender, age, background and education. The patients who spoke more than one language showed later onset of several types of dementia including Alzheimer’s, vascular and frontotemporal. Incredibly the results applied to the illiterate candidates as well as the literate ones. This meant the results were not down to the patients’ educational backgrounds. It also shows the value of learning to speak a new language without having to also learn to write it as well.

On average, dementia in a bilingual candidate presented 4.5 years later than in a mono-lingual candidate. These results go a long way to revealing the relationship between language learning and brain health. The study was conducted by Edinburgh University on 648 Indian patients and although it is the largest study on the relationship between bilingualism and dementia that has been performed, it is not the only one. There have been a whole series of research projects on this subject with similar findings. Not only does speaking two languages prevent the onset of dementia, but it allows those with the disease to function better for longer.

How can learning more languages build a Healthier Brain?

Scientific study has shown that by learning a second language, you can take better care of your brain and it is likely to stay healthy for longer, as well as being able to cope and function more effectively for longer in the case of dementia. The scientific evidence that has been collected does not only include those who have been speaking two or more languages from childhood, but later bilinguals too. This means that it is not too late for you to improve the strength and health of your brain and one of the best ways to do this is by learning a new language. You can still develop the part of your brain that in the future will protect itself against numerous degenerative diseases.

As for the way this happens, more research is still required for a fuller understanding. In one study published by the University of Ghent in Belgium, researchers believe that the action of swapping from one language to the other might contribute to brain health. The researchers in this case studied 134 patients receiving treatment for Alzheimer’s. The results showed that on average, the onset and diagnosis of the disease was over four years later among those who spoke two or more languages. A theory suggested that switching between languages provides a constant work out for a person’s brain, which can decrease the rate of degeneration among the grey cells in the brain. Essentially, swapping between languages uses a part of the brain that can delay the effects of dementia when it is properly exercised in everyday life.

Another study, from the Center for Brain, Behavior and Cognition at Pennsylvania State University, says that learning a new language creates new neural connections within the human brain. Therefore, the aging brain of a multilingual person has more alternate neural patterns that the mind can rely on as some of these brain connections fails.

Better Brain Health through Language Learning

At Langversity, we commit to reduce the time and energy required to learn a new language. Our method is visually intuitive to get you progressing with ease but also well structured to maximise your understanding ... and solidify your brain's new neural patterns.

As humans, our visual memory is impeccable. Sadly many methods by which languages are learned in school or by other means do not take full advantage of the skills we already have in picture learning. By cutting out translation, you will begin to think in your new language almost straight away, and build strong and relevant meaning between the image you see and the new word you are learning. That means that you won’t have to worry about actively rote learning vocabulary or committing things to memory manually. By using the simple picture exercises, your brain does it all for you without you even noticing.

Learn a New Language the Easier Way

Langversity offers you a choice of modern languages and a totally immersive visual learning experience. You can take the lessons at your own pace and progress to the next level when you feel ready. If you are ready to reap all the advantages of a healthier, fitter brain, open your new student account today and get started.

About the Author

Gillian Reynolds is a freelance writer specializing in articles on writing blog , Rewriting, copy writing, technical content, E-book content, product reviews, and more. She enjoys keeping up on the latest industry news, writing, and spending time with family. She has over 14 books published in many countries.