In a recent study conducted by researchers from the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) and the National University of Singapore (NUS), it has been found that learning a second language at an early age leads to positive changes in the brain, improving cognitive function and preserving social cognition abilities in later life.

The study, titled "Brain grey matter morphometry relates to onset age of bilingualism and theory of mind in young and older adults," highlights the benefits of bilingualism in maintaining cognitive health and combating age-related cognitive decline. The researchers discovered that early bilingualism results in increased gray matter volume and cortical thickness, contributing to a stronger cognitive reserve.

Cognitive reserve refers to the brain's ability to adapt and compensate for decline or damage. It allows individuals to utilize alternative pathways and brain regions to perform tasks, maintaining good cognitive function as they age. The study found that bilingual individuals, who constantly navigate between languages and interact with people from diverse backgrounds, have stronger mental flexibility, attention control, and working memory. These skills are essential for social cognition and theory of mind, which involves understanding others' thoughts and emotions.

The research team further investigated the association between bilingualism and social cognition decline in later life. They discovered that early bilingualism and better social cognitive performance in both young and older adults were associated with larger gray matter volume, increased cortical thickness, and a larger surface area in brain regions related to mental state inferences, language, and cognitive control processes.

The findings suggest that the earlier a second language is learned, the more beneficial structural changes occur in the brain, providing a protective effect against age-related cognitive impairments. Prof. Yow Wei Quin, a professor at SUTD, emphasized the importance of bilingualism for healthier aging and encouraged early language learning to preserve cognitive function and social cognition abilities in later life.

Dr. Li Xiaoqian, a co-author of the study, highlighted the potential social-cognitive benefits associated with acquiring a second language early in life. This supports the idea that bilingualism can help preserve social cognition in later life, fend off age-related decline, and contribute to healthier aging.

This study, which is part of a larger project on age-related psychological and neurological changes in social cognition, will provide valuable insights into the effect of bilingualism on social cognitive functioning. The researchers collected functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data to further investigate the relationship between bilingualism and social cognition.

The findings of this research highlight the lifelong benefits of bilingualism and underscore its importance in maintaining cognitive health and preserving social cognition abilities as individuals age. Encouraging early bilingual education and lifelong bilingualism can enrich and preserve social cognitive function, enabling individuals to maintain independence, engage in activities they enjoy, and foster meaningful relationships in later life.