The Bilingual Advantage?

Are there added benefits to speaking more than one language? As research grows in exploring how the brain functions in bilingual and multilingual language modes, there are studies showing a variety of interesting results in this field. While there is still significant debate in this arena, consensus is building that raising children bilingually or becoming bilingual yourself has significant benefits. According to a NY Times article, “among other benefits, the regular use of two languages appears to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms.” This finding was the work of cognitive neuroscientist, Ellen Bialystok, who “has spent almost 40 years learning about how bilingualism sharpens the mind.” To read more about this research, check out the article and share your thoughts.