TY - JOUR
T1 - Language training leads to global cognitive improvement in older adults : a preliminary study
AU - Wong, Patrick C. M.
AU - Ou, Jinghua
AU - Pang, Celestina W. Y.
AU - Zhang, Ling
AU - Tse, Chi Shing
AU - Lam, Linda C. W.
AU - Antoniou, Mark
PY - 2019
Y1 - 2019
N2 - Purpose: We report a preliminary study that prospectively tests the potential cognitive enhancing effect of foreign language (FL) learning in older adults with no clear signs of cognitive decline beyond what is age typical. Because language learning engages a large brain network that overlaps with the network of cognitive aging, we hypothesized that learning a new language later in life would be beneficial. Method: Older adults were randomly assigned to 3 training groups: FL, games, and music appreciation. All were trained predominately by a computer-based program for 6 months, and their cognitive abilities were tested before, immediately after, and 3 months after training. Results: FL and games, but not music appreciation, improved overall cognitive abilities that were maintained at 3 months after training. Conclusion: This is the 1st randomized control study providing preliminary support for the cognitive benefits of FL learning.
AB - Purpose: We report a preliminary study that prospectively tests the potential cognitive enhancing effect of foreign language (FL) learning in older adults with no clear signs of cognitive decline beyond what is age typical. Because language learning engages a large brain network that overlaps with the network of cognitive aging, we hypothesized that learning a new language later in life would be beneficial. Method: Older adults were randomly assigned to 3 training groups: FL, games, and music appreciation. All were trained predominately by a computer-based program for 6 months, and their cognitive abilities were tested before, immediately after, and 3 months after training. Results: FL and games, but not music appreciation, improved overall cognitive abilities that were maintained at 3 months after training. Conclusion: This is the 1st randomized control study providing preliminary support for the cognitive benefits of FL learning.
KW - cognition
KW - language and languages
KW - learning
KW - older people
UR - http://handle.westernsydney.edu.au:8081/1959.7/uws:52728
UR - https://search.proquest.com/docview/2274269331?accountid=36155
U2 - 10.1044/2019_JSLHR-L-18-0321
DO - 10.1044/2019_JSLHR-L-18-0321
M3 - Article
SN - 1558-9102
VL - 62
SP - 2411
EP - 2424
JO - Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research
JF - Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research
IS - 7
ER -