THE IMPACT OF BILINGUALISM ON BRAIN FUNCTION
Keywords:
Bilingualism, cognitive function, brain plasticity, executive control, neuroprotection, language processing, dementia prevention, cognitive flexibility.Abstract
Bilingualism, the ability to speak and understand two languages fluently, has been a subject of extensive research in cognitive science and neuroscience. This paper explores the impact of bilingualism on brain structure and function, highlighting its cognitive advantages, including enhanced executive function, memory, and cognitive flexibility. Furthermore, it discusses the protective effects of bilingualism against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and its role in brain plasticity. Despite these benefits, bilingualism also presents challenges, such as language interference and slower word retrieval. By analyzing recent studies, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how bilingualism shapes cognitive development and neurological health. Understanding the profound effects of bilingualism on the brain can help educators, policymakers, and healthcare professionals develop strategies to maximize its benefits.
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