Plasticity, Variability and Age in Second Language Acquisition and Bilingualism

This paper explores how plasticity, variability, and age interact in second-language (L2) acquisition and bilingualism. It highlights the role of critical periods for language learning, the decline of neuroplasticity with age, and how bilingualism influences cognitive processing and brain structure. The research underscores that age impacts language learning outcomes but not uniformly; factors like motivation, experience, and neurobiological differences play critical roles. Bilingualism fosters cognitive flexibility and may protect against cognitive decline by encouraging lifelong learning and brain adaptability.

Engage in activities that challenge the brain, like learning a new language or enhancing bilingual proficiency. While the research shows that younger learners tend to achieve higher language mastery, even older learners benefit cognitively. These benefits include improved executive function and neuroplasticity, which contribute to cognitive resilience.