Which disease does knowing a foreign language protect you from?
Studies show people who speak 2 or more languages develop Alzheimer's and dementia much later — or not at all. The reason: switching between languages is the best workout the brain can get.
Knowing a foreign language — and learning new ones — protects you from Alzheimer's and dementia, two of the most widespread diseases of our era.
What are Alzheimer's and dementia?
Alzheimer's and dementia are memory-loss diseases mostly affecting people over 65 (though they're increasingly diagnosed in younger people too). They start with mild memory problems and progress to the point where patients no longer recognise their own family. Even simple mental and physical tasks become difficult.
How language helps
Recent research shows that people who speak 2 or more languages develop these diseases much later — or not at all.
The reason is straightforward: every time you switch between languages, your brain exercises. It's the best mental workout there is. The brains of multilingual people stay sharp for much longer with age.
One more reason to start a new language. Browse our language courses or get in touch.