Neurologist Alexander Tkachev: bilingualism is good for the brain, but does not protect against dementia

The claim that bilingualism is good for the brain is only partly true. Neurologist Alexander Tkachev spoke about this in a conversation with RT.

According to him, science has not yet confirmed the simplified formula “learn a second language and there will be no dementia.”

“People who regularly use two languages ​​throughout their lives may actually develop greater cognitive reserve. This is the brain’s ability to cope with age-related and pathological changes longer, using additional neural connections and redistributing the load more flexibly,” Tkachev assessed.

As the specialist explained, constantly switching between languages ​​requires attention, control and selection of the right words - this is a rather difficult daily workout for the brain. This does not make the brain invulnerable and does not stop the accumulation of pathological changes, however, in bilinguals, researchers record a later onset of symptoms.

“At the same time, language learning should not replace preventive measures. Control of blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes, physical activity, correction of hearing and vision loss, smoking cessation, normal sleep and maintaining social contacts influence the risk of dementia much more convincingly,” the doctor concluded.