Learning English and the brain: what science says
Just to name a few studies: Research from the University of Edinburgh has shown zalo database that bilingualism can delay the symptoms of dementia , including frontotemporal dementia and Alzheimer's disease, by up to 4.5 years, attributing this effect to improvements in executive control and cognitive reserve. This was observed both in people who learned the second language in childhood and in adulthood.
Furthermore, another study at the University of York highlighted that bilinguals show greater gray matter density in brain areas associated with memory and executive control , which are key to cognitive function as we age.
Why is learning English ideal for exercising the brain?
Learning English presents specific challenges that are highly beneficial for the mind. From pronouncing new sounds to handling complex verb tenses, this language involves using several areas of the brain at the same time. Here are some reasons why learning English is an excellent way to keep your brain active:
Long-term memory : Learning new vocabulary and remembering grammatical structures improves memory and strengthens neural connections.
Mental flexibility : By switching between languages, you train your ability to change perspective and think of creative solutions.
Improved focus and attention : Learning a language trains selective attention, which helps you filter out distractions and concentrate better on complex tasks.
Check out this article where we talk about the best age to learn English .
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Evidence of the cognitive benefits of learning English
Several studies have found strong links between language learning and brain health. A meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Psychology concluded that bilinguals have a longer attention span and can switch between tasks more easily, a skill known as “cognitive multitasking.” This same study found that bilingualism improves cognitive control , a critical skill in everyday life.
In addition, a Harvard University study found that older people who learn English experience significant improvements in working memory, which is used to perform tasks such as remembering lists or handling information in the moment. Researchers also found that the benefits increase over time, indicating that the more you practice the language, the more improvements you see in your mental health. This further reinforces the idea that it is never too late to learn English.
