Research presented at the 2026 Federation of European Neuroscience Societies Forum indicates that speaking multiple languages may contribute to slower brain aging. The study analyzed brain activity from participants in Spain's Basque region who spoke between one and four languages, including Spanish, Basque, French, and English. Using artificial intelligence, researchers estimated each participant's 'brain age' based on brain connectivity patterns.
The findings revealed that bilingual participants had brains that appeared approximately six years younger than those who spoke only one language. Participants who spoke three languages showed a brain age about seven years younger, while those who spoke four languages had brains that appeared roughly 13 years younger. Additionally, individuals who learned a second language earlier in life and achieved high fluency experienced greater cognitive benefits.
Dr. Tommy Wood, a neuroscientist, noted that the results support previous research suggesting that multilingualism may help protect cognitive function as people age. He emphasized that adults who did not grow up bilingual could still benefit from learning a new language, as there is no specific age cutoff for potential advantages. Wood referenced several randomized controlled trials that demonstrated improvements in attention, working memory, and executive function in older adults after a few months of language learning.
The researchers acknowledged limitations in their study, noting that while they accounted for factors such as age, sex, and education, other influences like lifestyle and social engagement could not be ruled out.