Could learning a second language really increase you chance of recovering from a stroke? A new study seems to point to yes. As we continue to unlock the secrets of the human mind, its intricacies and complexities, we learn just how in tandem the brain works when it’s dealing with its own malfunctions. This isn’t the first time we’ve heard about higher cognitive functions being linked to quicker recovery times, or lessening the effects of brain debilitating diseases and accidents — but this new study with stroke victims shows some pretty compelling data.
Co-author Dr. Thomas Bak found that the boost in cognitive reserve, the way the brain’s resistance and ability to handle damage to itself, was aided by speaking multiple languages. “Bilingualism makes people to switch from one language to another, so while they inhibit one language, they have to activate another to communicate. This switching offers practically constant brain training which may be a factor in helping stroke patients recover.”
The same team also did a previous study on how knowing multiple languages could stave off the effects of dementia. 608 stroke patients in Hyderabad, India were examined for this study. Those who were bilingual, or multilingual in general, had almost twice the chance at returning to normal after having a stroke. And that’s including high-risk patients who smoked, had high blood pressure, and were diabetic.
The study was done in conjunction with The University of Edinburgh and Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences in Hyderabad. The reason they chose the city of Hyderabad is due to the fact nearly the entire population there is multilingual. Though, the research notes make it clear that this could be only the case for Hyderabad, and other people who speak bilingual on a daily basis. It might be that the daily switch between languages aides in boosting the cognitive function which allows for the quicker recovery rate in stroke victims. More research still needs to be done to confirm just how effective and widespread this research can apply to.
Still, it may be a good thing to start brushing up on that second language now and finding a way to use it in your every day life. Not only may it help you live longer, it just never hurts to have a little extra learning in your day to day.Source:http://www.geek.com/news/speaking-multiple-languages-doubles-your-chance-of-recovering-from-a-stroke-1640736/
