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There is scientific evidence that shows how the young brain is more able to soak up a new language –which makes sense considering we all need to learn to communicate when we’re young. When we get older our brains change; the way we learn changes; we become better in other aspects, but the ability to learn a language drops off.
That being said, there’s no substitute for hard work and perseverance.
No matter what age you are, a new language isn’t going to be easy. So the first and most important thing to do is commit yourself — don’t start if you’re not going to be able to give it the time and attention it needs and deserves.
- Schedule time each week (every day if you can) to practice, practice, practice.
- Look for some good classes to sign up to, a good teacher will have a set structure and be able to help you with your individual needs.
- Find people in your community that speak the language you’re learning, it’s easier today than in the past to find them, a simple web search should turn in results; schedule a time each week to meet with them so that you can talk in your new tongue.
- Convince a friend they too should learn, having a partner means you can both help each other move along a little quicker — Also, a little competition will be good!
If you follow these methods you should acquire your new language in no time, no matter your age. Yes, it’s going to be a lot of work, but if something is worth doing then it’s worth doing right, and learning a language is worth doing.
Your brain is like a muscle, it becomes stronger when it gets exercise, while you might find it more difficult to pick the language up than if you started in your teens, the many benefits apply all around.
You’ll become smarter, more decisive, and better at English. Being able to switch between two languages strengthens your ability to multitask. The mean age for the first signs of dementia is 71.4 for monolingual adults, that age jumps up to 75.5 for those that can speak more than one language. It will improve your memory, make you more perceptive, and stave off Alzheimer’s.
Then there’s that little added little benefit of being able to travel, to find that far away land and retire in paradise; it’s not the same when you’re in a new environment, a new culture, and unable to talk with the locals — With your newfound linguistic abilities you’ll have no such barrier.
Sam represents Language Trainers, which provides individually-tailored language training on a one-on-one or small group basis worldwide
