Part of
Understanding Language and Cognition through Bilingualism: In honor of Ellen BialystokEdited by Gigi Luk, John A.E. Anderson and John G. Grundy
[Studies in Bilingualism 64] 2023
► pp. 318–342
Edited by Gigi Luk, John A.E. Anderson and John G. Grundy
[Studies in Bilingualism 64] 2023
► pp. 318–342
Chapter 15The effects of bilingualism on cognitive functioning in older
adults
This chapter examines the links between bilingualism and executive control in older adults, with a particular focus on comparing those with lifelong bilingual experience to those who do not. While aging is a maturational process in which people become suboptimal in executive control, there is observable and documented variability associated with language experiences. The chapter reviews the literature on cognitive aging as a maturational process, and its interaction with bilingualism as a life experience. Although it should be acknowledged that there is mixed evidence, a body of literature on bilingualism and cognitive control has suggested that there is an advantage for bilingual older adults in some executive functions, such as monitoring, maintaining action goals, and possibly in working memory.
Article outline
- Aging and executive control
- Bilingualism and cognitive aging
- Findings from other labs
- Conclusions
-
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