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Learning a second or third language may help slow brain aging, according to research presented at the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies conference in Barcelona. The findings suggest that the more languages a person speaks—and the earlier they begin learning them—the younger their brain appears, The Guardian reports.
As people age, connections between billions of brain cells gradually weaken, contributing to slower thinking and memory decline. Researchers found that bilingual participants had brains that appeared about six years younger than monolinguals. For people who spoke three languages, the difference was around seven years, while those fluent in four languages showed brains that appeared up to 13 years younger.
The study, conducted by scientists from Spain, Chile, Argentina, and Ireland, focused on residents of Spain’s Basque Country, where multilingualism is common.
Researchers used magnetoencephalography (MEG) to measure brain activity. They first analyzed data from 728 participants of different ages and language backgrounds, then used artificial intelligence to identify age-related patterns in brain connectivity. The results were validated in a separate group of 144 participants, evenly divided between people speaking one, two, three, or four languages.
“People who spoke more languages generally had brains that looked younger than expected for their age. It’s not just about being bilingual—it’s about the depth and duration of language experience,” said Lucía Amoruso.
Christina Dalla said the findings provide another reason to encourage language learning at any age, citing its social, cultural, and potential cognitive benefits.
However, Ef Hogervorst cautioned against drawing firm conclusions. She noted that multilingual people may also be more likely to read, pursue lifelong learning, play musical instruments, or maintain healthier lifestyles—all factors that could also contribute to better brain health.
Last year, researchers at the University of Western Australia reported that overall brain performance tends to peak between the ages of 55 and 60, with slower information processing offset by gains in emotional intelligence, conscientiousness, and resistance to cognitive errors.
