The idea of learning a new foreign language can be exciting, regardless of how old one is. What’s more, ding this enhances the possibilities of exercising the brain. It is believed to be one of the best brain workouts anyone can subject their mind to. The cognitive exercise the brain goes through when learning any foreign language is necessary when processing and switching between two very different languages.
In addition to that, learning a new language helps develop brain strength in the sense that it facilitates long-term memory. Learning a new language can also delay the onset of dementia and other conditions like Alzheimer’s. It can also lead to quicker recovery from stroke due to the cognitive reserve that helps the brain bounce back. Some studies also show that learning a new language also contributes to slowing down brain aging due to how flexible it gets.
No Time Limits to Learn
The are many options when it comes to learning a new language- one of the easiest ways is to enroll in a foreign language class and to practice with mother-tongues. Moreover, today learning a foreign language is made even more convenient by apps like Babbel for example. This kind of app is very affordable compared to in-classroom lesson and also enables you do the work anytime, anywhere. Once you’ve acquired some domesticity with the language, it’s important to keep practicing, especially in person and within your community. Find people who speak the language and practice with them. You can also join a language exchange program where you interact with native speakers of the language you are trying to learn. This can boost your learning abilities tremendously. Reading books written in a foreign language also helps a lot. Consider listening to podcasts and radio in the said language to improve your vocabulary.
Anyone can learn a foreign language at any stage of their life. This is one of those things that have no time limits set on them. Furthermore, it seems that older people get to master foreign languages faster because of the better impact they have on their brains. A cortical thickness linked to a bilingual brain’s higher intelligence gets altered when the learning of a foreign language happens at a later stage in life, and after the learner has already developed proficiency in a first language. What this means is that the more delayed a foreign language is learned, the better effect it has on brain structure increase. In addition to this, it has been reported that active bilingual language speakers have more grey matter in brain areas that work on inhibition, short-term memory, and attention.
Why Learning a New Language is a Plus
Everyone should purpose to learn a foreign language because of the numerous gains that come with it. Below are some of the most compelling reasons you should enroll for foreign language classes soonest possible.
- Enhances memory thus preventing the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s
- It helps with attention spans which means that it is easier for multi-lingual people to multi-task
- Multiple language knowledge helps reduce the brain aging process and overall aging.
- Boosts decision-making abilities
- Boosts better recovery from certain conditions such as stroke
If you are yet to appreciate the gains of learning a new language, then the fact that it may help you in your daily interactions should encourage you. What’s more, it may come in handy when traveling to new places that could pose a language barrier. In addition to that, it also helps shape your perspective and appreciation for different cultures around the world.
Learning a new language entails getting deeper into the cultures and traditions of the people who speak the language. You stand a better chance of knowing what to expect when you learn their language.
