Learning a language may slow brain aging by 13 years, study suggests
6 reported2 unconfirmed
New research suggests that learning another language can slow aging in the brain by up to 13 years, according to a Guardian columnist. The author, Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett, writes that multilingualism promotes brain connectivity and slows cognitive decline with age. She describes her own experience speaking French in France and Italian in Italy, noting the challenge of recalling words and conjugations. Cosslett states that neuroscientists say the earlier you learn a language, the better, but she adds that it is never too late. The article is a personal reflection based on the columnist's travels and does not cite specific study authors or institutions.
What’s reported
New research has found that learning another language can slow ageing in the brain by up to 13 years.
Multilingualism is thought to promote brain connectivity and slow its decline with age.
The author speaks English, Welsh, French, and Italian.
The author traveled to France and Italy, where she practiced speaking French and Italian.
The author states that neuroscientists say the earlier you learn a language, the better.
The article is a single-source opinion piece from The Guardian.
Open questions
The specific study or researchers behind the claim that language learning slows brain aging by 13 years are not named.
Whether the phrase "C’est le petit Jésus en culotte de velours!" is still in common use in France is not confirmed.
Key figures
Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett, Guardian columnist and author of the article.
The author's aunt, who has lived in France for more than 40 years.
The author's father, who speaks English, Welsh, some French, and some Russian.
Sources: The Guardian
