Why learning a new language improves wellness

​ Learning a language is a wonderful benefit. Not only does it help when traveling, but acquiring a second language enables us to develop various mental abilities at all ages.

Boosts brain power – A foreign language is a whole new intricate system of rules,structures, and lexis. Learning a new language means your brain has to cope with complexity as it makes sense of and absorbs new patterns.

Improves memory – Learning a language gives your memory a good work out in the brain gym. This means that multilingual people have brains that are more exercised and quick to recall names, directions, facts, and figures.

Keeps the mind sharper for longer – Language learning keeps your brain healthy.

For monolingual adults, the mean age for the first signs of dementia is 71.4. For adults who speak two or more languages, the mean age for those first signs is 75.5.

Improves perfomance in other academic areas – As a result of higher cognitive

skills, studies show that the benefits of learning a new language include higher scores on standardized exams in math, reading comprehension and vocabulary by multilingual students compared to the scores of monolingual students.

Increases networking skills – Opening up to a culture allows you to be more

flexible and appreciative of other people’s opinions and actions. As a result, if you are multilingual, you have the advantage of seeing the world from different viewpoints, enhancing your ability to communicate in today’s globally connected world.

Language learning helps develop strong cognitive skills, such as a better concept formation, mental flexibility, multitasking, listening skills and problem-solving, in addition to improving social interaction and encouraging connection between peers. What’s your next language?
 

Sources: Eton Institute