How Learning New Language Boosts Neuroplasticity

Learning a new language is not just about communication; it’s a cognitive workout that strengthens the brain’s adaptability, resilience, and overall health.

Here are key examples of how learning a new language can be a powerful way to enhance neuroplasticity and improve our cognitive function throughout life.

1. Increased Grey Matter Volume

Studies using MRI scans have shown that people learning a new language exhibit increases in grey matter volume in certain brain regions, particularly in the left hemisphere, which is dominant for language processing and executive functions.

One of the brain regions that often shows increased grey matter volume is the hippocampus. Hippocampus is involved in memory formation and spatial navigation. Learning a new language, especially in an immersive and challenging environment, stimulates the hippocampus as learners encode and recall new vocabulary, grammatical structures, and pronunciation rules.

2. Better Cognitive Functions

Cognitive functions are mental processes that allow us to gather, process, and use information from the environment. Cognitive functions are the building blocks of various cognitive activities, such as memory, attention, problem-solving, decision-making and language-processing.

Studies conducted in people who are fluent in two or more languages often display better cognitive functions, such as attention, working memory, and problem-solving abilities, than people who are monolingual.

3. Better Executive Functions

Executive functions are a subset of cognitive functions that involve higher-level, goal-directed processes responsible for guiding and regulating our behaviour. They are sometimes referred to as the “CEO” of the brain.

Since language learning requires managing time and multiple linguistic systems, active learners often exhibit strong executive functions. They need to be organised and create a systematic plan to achieve a goal or complete a task. Nuturally, they’re flexible and learn to adjust thinking in response to new language structures and linguistic challenges.

4. Improved Memory

Fundamentally, language learning heavily involves memorisation. Learners need to learn and recall new vocabulary and grammar rules. This can have a positive impact on memory by stimulating various cognitive processes and brain regions associated with memory formation and retention.

For example, the constant practice of new words, phrases, and grammar structures enhances learners’ working memory capacity. Learning grammar rules and word formation also improves pattern recognition abilities. Managing two or more languages certainly requires constant memory retrieval and inhibition, leading to improved executive control and memory abilities.

5. Neuroplastictiy

Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections and adapt to new learning experiences throughout life.

Language learning engages various brain regions particularly involved in memory and language processing. The process is known to stimulate the brain’s neuroplasticity.

A study, published in Cortex Journal, found that structural neuroplasticity is commonly observed in the brain as a result of one’s bilingual experience. The neural patterns observed often exhibit anatomical changes in brain structure, including increased grey matter density, increased cortical thickness, and white matter integrity.

The changes related to language learning can be observed in people across different age groups, including children, young adults, and the elderly. These changes can happen rapidly during short-term language learning or training. However, it should be noted that they are sensitive to various factors, such as age, age of language acquisition, and language proficiency.

6. Delayed Cognitive Decline

Some studies suggest that language learning may delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline and neurogenerative diseases like dementia. Since language learning is a mentally challenging activity that engages multiple cognitive processes, regularly stimulating the brain through learning and using new languages may contribute to a larger brain reserve – the brain’s ability to compensate for age-related changes and pathology.

While language learning may not completely prevent dementia, incorporating language learning into one’s lifestyle can be a valuable component of a comprehensive approach to brain health.

In essence

If you’re not already a language enthusiast, it’s never too late to start.

Learning a new language challenges the brain to recognise and process unfamiliar sounds, grammar structures, and vocabulary. This process strengthens existing neural pathways and creates new ones, improving the brain’s ability to adapt to new experiences.

With no doubt, learning a new language provides more benefits for the brain than what was initially believed. Yet, it should be noted that these benefits are most evident when the learning and usage of the language are done consistently and actively.

Also, it’s important for the brain to be engaged in meaningful ways. Regular practice, immersion, and exposure to the new language are the keys for maximising the positive effects on the brain.

Whether you’re learning a language for personal, academic, or professional reasons, the long-lasting cognitive benefits you reap will make it an enriching and worthwhile experience in the long run.

DeepGamma.