The ability to speak more than one language is becoming increasingly common in today’s world.

People who grow up in bilingual households or who learn a second language later in life may wonder if their abilities to switch between languages or to retain multiple languages are matched by cognitive benefits. This article looks at the research on whether people who speak multiple languages have better cognitive function and provides a summary of current findings.

What is cognitive function?

Cognitive function refers to the way our brain processes information. This can include tasks such as attention, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making.

As we age, our cognitive function can decline, which is why it’s important to keep our brains active through activities such as learning new things, exercising regularly, and socializing. Research has shown that speaking multiple languages may be one way to maintain cognitive function as we age.

The bilingual advantage

Research has shown that bilinguals may have better cognitive abilities compared to monolinguals. One study from 2014 found that bilinguals performed better on cognitive tasks such as attention, inhibition, and working memory.

Another study from 2020 found that bilinguals had better cognitive flexibility, which is the ability to switch between different tasks or ways of thinking. These cognitive benefits are thought to be a result of the constant practice of switching between languages and the need to control which language is being used.

Bilingualism and Alzheimer’s disease

Bilingualism may also have protective effects on the brain as we age. Research has found that bilinguals may delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

One study from 2011 found that bilinguals who developed dementia did so an average of 4.5 years later than monolinguals. Another study from 2014 found that bilinguals with Alzheimer’s disease had better cognitive function than monolinguals with Alzheimer’s.

These findings suggest that speaking more than one language may provide a “cognitive reserve” that helps to offset the effects of aging and disease.

Learning a second language

Learning a second language later in life may also provide cognitive benefits. One study from 2012 found that older adults who learned a second language improved their cognitive function compared to a control group who did not learn a second language.

Another study from 2016 found that after just one week of intensive language learning, participants showed improvements in attention and inhibition.

Do all bilinguals have better cognitive function?

It’s important to note that not all bilinguals will have better cognitive function than monolinguals. The amount of language exposure and proficiency can have an impact on the cognitive benefits.

For example, bilinguals who use both languages frequently and who are equally proficient in both languages may have greater cognitive advantages than bilinguals who only use one language occasionally. Additionally, the cognitive benefits of bilingualism may be more pronounced in certain populations, such as those with traumatic brain injuries, or those who are diagnosed with ADHD.

Conclusion

Overall, research suggests that people who speak multiple languages may have better cognitive function compared to monolinguals. Bilingualism may provide cognitive benefits such as better attention, inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility.

Additionally, speaking more than one language may delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and provide a cognitive reserve that helps to offset the effects of aging and disease. If you’re interested in improving your cognitive function, learning a second language may be one way to do so!.