Learning Another Language May Slow Brain Aging
Speaking multiple languages could slow brain aging and prevent cognitive decline, a study of 80,000+ people found.
Why it matters
- Multilingualism may delay cognitive aging.
- Previous studies had small samples and unreliable methods.
By the numbers
- Over 80,000 participants aged 51-90 across 27 European countries.
- Multilingual people are half as likely to show accelerated aging signs.
The big picture
- Learning additional languages may protect brain health.
- Could influence policymakers to promote language learning.
What they're saying
- Study's scale strengthens link between multilingualism and slower aging.
- Experts suggest starting with easier languages to build confidence.
Caveats
- Language proficiency was self-reported.
- Future research should include more diverse populations.
What’s next
- Policymakers might promote language learning in education.
- Future studies could expand to non-European populations.