Language Training Leads to Global Cognitive Improvement in Older Adults: A Preliminary Study

Autor/inn/en	Wong, Patrick C. M.; Ou, Jinghua; Pang, Celestina W. Y.; Zhang, Ling; Tse, Chi Shing; Lam, Linda C. W.; Antoniou, Mark
Titel	Language Training Leads to Global Cognitive Improvement in Older Adults: A Preliminary Study
Quelle	In: Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 62 (2019) 7, S.2411-2424 (14 Seiten) PDF als Volltext Verfügbarkeit
Sprache	englisch
Dokumenttyp	gedruckt; online; Zeitschriftenaufsatz
ISSN	1092-4388
Schlagwörter	Second Language Learning; Older Adults; Cognitive Development; Brain Hemisphere Functions; Games; Music Appreciation; Computer Assisted Instruction; Educational Technology; Program Effectiveness; Aging (Individuals) + Suchen Sie Ihr Suchwort? Zweitsprachenerwerb; Älterer Erwachsener; Kognitive Entwicklung; Game; Spiel; Spiele; Musikbeurteilung; Computer based training; Computerunterstützter Unterricht; Unterrichtsmedien; Aging; Altern
Abstract	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. (As Provided).
Anmerkungen	American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. 2200 Research Blvd #250, Rockville, MD 20850. Tel: 301-296-5700; Fax: 301-296-8580; e-mail: slhr@asha.org; Web site: http://jslhr.pubs.asha.org
Erfasst von	ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Washington, DC
Update	2020/1/01