The Neurobiological Effects of Bilingualism: A Link to Neurodegenerative Diseases
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.2291Abstract
The influence of bilingualism on cognitive functioning has been a subject of increasing interest within the fields of psychology and neuroscience. Specifically, bilingualism requires the constant management of two language systems, leading to frequent instances of code-switching—the ability to switch between languages depending on context and conversational partners. This practice is hypothesized to strengthen inhibitory control, as bilinguals must regularly suppress one language while using another. Enhanced cognitive flexibility is also suggested to stem from the need to switch languages, which fosters adaptability and mental agility. Improved working memory in bilinguals may also result from the continuous juggling of multiple linguistic rules and vocabularies. The concepts of cognitive reserve and cognitive resilience are central to understanding the protective effects of bilingualism on brain health. By strengthening executive functions through bilingualism, individuals may be able to build a more robust cognitive reserve, thereby delaying the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. This paper investigates which specific executive functions are most enhanced by bilingualism and how these enhancements contribute to cognitive reserve and cognitive resilience against neurodegenerative diseases. The study focuses on inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, and working memory, all of which are critical components of executive function. This paper also examines the integration of bilingualism-based cognitive training into clinical and therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on its potential to enhance executive functions and cognitive resilience through various intervention methods.
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