You’ve heard about how important exercise is to keep your body healthy — but what about your brain? Just like the rest of your body, your brain needs regular “workouts” to stay in shape. Whenever you learn a new skill, process new information, or complete a task that’s challenging, you are exercising your brain. As it turns out, language learning is one of the most effective “brain workouts” out there! If you are ready to get started on your brain fitness journey, check out our language classes for mature adults.
No matter when in your life you start learning a new language, you’ll give your brain health a boost. Here are some of the amazing ways that language learning benefits your brain:
Language learning improves your working memory
Language learning heavily engages a cognitive process called working memory. Your working memory is your brain’s “temporary hold” for new information, and it’s critical as you learn new vocabulary, sounds, and grammar in another language. Scientists used to think that your working memory does not change much over time. However, recent research has demonstrated that language learning may actually improve your working memory — especially when you first start a new language. So dive right in! Your brain will thank you for it.
Language learning builds new connections in your brain
As you might imagine, language learning is a complex process that uses many different parts of your brain. Because of this, the learning process increases something called functional connectivity between parts of the brain you use while learning. These new connections are important safeguards that can keep cognitive decline at bay over time.
Language learning improves your attention span
Starting a new language can strengthen your brain no matter when in life you do it! In one study, adults who studied a language for just four months showed significant improvements in their performance on memory and attention tests than adults who didn’t.
Cognitive Health Infographic
Language learning is fun and sustainable.
In one study comparing language learning with other brain-training puzzles and activities, scientists found that adults who learned a new language to stay sharp found the activity more “enjoyable and sustainable” than other kinds of brain workouts. Plus, with language learning you’ll be gaining an applicable skill you can use to connect with people all around the world!
Are you ready to give your brain a workout? Start your language adventure with ICLS!
Lifelong Learning at ICLS: Language classes for mature adults
Inspired to start your language-learning journey? Whether you’re looking to dip your toes into a new culture, prepare for an upcoming trip, or boost your professional skills, ICLS has a language class to help you become a lifelong learner! Our highly experienced, top-tier instructors will make sure you achieve your goals and have fun while doing so.
Our Lifelong Language Program offers 6-week online language classes for mature adults centered on travel and culture themes in French, Spanish, and Italian.
And if you’re looking for a more intensive experience, try our 10-week Online Group Language Courses. Choose between courses in Arabic, Chinese, French, Brazilian Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish.
