Language learning helps to ward off dementia
Language students, you may very well be preserving your mental health! New research demonstrates that learning another language could prevent the onset of the cognitive disease dementia. Being able to speak two languages makes the brain work harder, and is therefore more resilient in later life; according to the study, which was conducted at Toronto’s York University.
The researchers examined hospital records of patients diagnosed with a variety of different types of dementia, and found that those who were bilingual were diagnosed with dementia three to four years later than patients who were only able to speak one language.
Dr Ellen Bialystok, respected psychologist and leader of the study, said
“Our conclusion is that lifelong experience in managing attention to two languages reorganizes specific brain networks, creating a more effective basis for executive control and sustaining better cognitive performance throughout the lifespan.
‘It should not be surprising that intense and sustained experience leaves its mark on our minds and brains, and it is now clear that the bilingual brain has been uniquely shaped by experience.”
Source: Trends in Cognitive Sciences Journal
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