Our Research Foundations:

Studies published by the University of Edinburgh show that those who can speak a second language tend to develop dementia up to 5 years later than those of us who can only speak one. This level of prevention is greater than anything currently offered in the fields of medicine or pharmacology, and it's for such reasons that many are calling for language learning to be viewed as part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle, much like exercising or maintaining a balanced diet. 

Why is language learning so good for the brain? Language learning acts as an incredibly effective workout for the mind… 

Language learning keeps the brain active by employing the ‘desirable difficulties’ of novelty, challenge, and effort. It leads to measurable cognitive improvements (particularly when compared to less taxing, more familiar activities). That’s to say, the constant juggling between distinct sounds, new words, and unfamiliar concepts acts as an efficient brain workout, building up higher levels of what is known as ‘cognitive reserve’, leading to a healthy and active mind. All of this improves our decision-making and multi-tasking skills and heightens our ability to concentrate and communicate.

The same body of research shows that the stimulating effects of language are not confined to those who learnt their second language in early life, nor those who have mastered their language perfectly. Rather, directed language learning positively affects mental performance and ability after just one week.

This incredible research catalyses Lingo Flamingo as we put it into action daily through our challenging but accessible care home/day centre classes for older adults and those living with dementia. We also employ the same research-based approaches to the community classes delivered in our Language Hub.