Many teenagers study a second language at school, often wondering whether they will ever use it.
New research suggests there may be an unexpected reward.
According to scientists presenting their work at the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies Forum, speaking more than one language may be linked with a younger-looking brain.
The researchers focused on brain ageing rather than memory tests. Using advanced brain imaging, they developed a computer model that estimated the biological age of the brain by measuring connections between different brain regions.
The model was first created using brain scans from 728 people before being tested on another group of 144 adults with different levels of language experience. Some participants spoke only one language, while others had learned up to four.
The results suggested that multilingual people tended to have younger brains than their chronological age would predict. Speaking two languages was linked with a brain that appeared six years younger, three languages with about seven years younger and four languages with roughly 13 years younger.
The benefits were not limited to the number of languages spoken. People who had learned another language at a younger age generally showed stronger effects, while adults who reached high levels of fluency also appeared to benefit.
Scientists believe learning languages constantly challenges the brain. It requires remembering vocabulary, understanding grammar, switching between languages and communicating in different situations. These demanding mental activities may help strengthen brain networks over many years.
The team plans to examine whether multilingualism could help protect against conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. More research will be needed before doctors can recommend language learning specifically as a way to prevent dementia.
Independent experts welcomed the findings but pointed out that healthy brain ageing depends on many factors. Physical activity, a nutritious diet, social engagement, lifelong education and avoiding smoking all play important roles alongside mental stimulation.
Because this research found an association rather than proving cause and effect, other lifestyle differences between multilingual and monolingual people could partly explain the results. Larger long-term studies will help clarify exactly how language learning influences brain health.
Overall, the study highlights yet another potential advantage of learning languages. Whether someone starts as a child or later in adulthood, becoming fluent in another language may support lifelong brain health while also providing cultural, educational and career benefits.
If you care about brain health, please read studies about low choline intake linked to higher dementia risk, and how eating nuts can affect your cognitive ability.
For more health information, please see recent studies that blueberry supplements may prevent cognitive decline, and results showing higher magnesium intake could help benefit brain health.
