Written by Gabriela Estrada

Learning a new language in adulthood has great health benefits. Among the languages that arouse most interest in older Hispanics is French, well known for its elegance and its benefits for the brain. After overcoming so many challenges, testing oneself with a new episode can keep the spark of life and neurofunctional activity burning.

This article of our blog is dedicated to the parents and grandparents of the house, today I will give you details on why learning to speak French can be a good gymnastics for the brain. Join me to read this important topic to the end, let's get started!

The pleasure of doing something new

In adulthood, life can become routine, with responsibilities and obligations that often limit intellectual capacity and lead to boredom. However, a new language can be a wonderful opportunity to break the monotony and steer the compass towards the great north of mental adventures. The adult brain is perfectly capable of learning and adapting to new challenges, and the learning process itself can be very enjoyable. 

For years, I have based my profession on knowledge of neuroscience and effective communication management. I am pleased to reach out to the adults at home with an encouraging message that it is possible to speak a second language and to make the most of it for mental health and self-confidence at this critical stage of life.

Studies have shown that learning a new language can improve brain plasticity, which helps keep the mind sharp and active. In addition, connecting with a language as rich and melodious as French ends up being a daily motivator and even a good topic of conversation in the lives of most adults. Each sentence constructed in French represents a great victory that strengthens confidence and revitalizes the sense of personal accomplishment of older parents and grandparents. 

What are the benefits of learning French as an adult?

Learning French as an adult comes with a number of benefits that go beyond mere knowledge of the language. Here are some of the highlights:

• Contributes to cognitive development: learning a new language is an excellent mental gymnastics. It helps improve memory, concentration and multitasking skills. Keeping the mind active can delay cognitive decline associated with aging.

• It allows access to a new culture: French is a language that opens doors to a vast cultural world. From literature and cinema to gastronomy and art, learning French allows you to get involved in the richest and most multicultural cultures in the world, one of which is Canada. This country is bilingual (English and French) and attracts a lot of attention from seniors because of its historical charm and natural beauties.

• It generates great personal satisfaction abroad: speaking French can completely transform the travel experience, it is easier to communicate with simple phrases in stores and supermarkets, it helps to better understand the French-speaking culture and allows you to enjoy new and fresh moments together with family and friends.

• It is conducive to the creation of new friendships: learning French also opens the door to new friendships and cordial people with whom you can interact. In particular, French classes allow you to meet people from around the world with similar interests to your own.
• It is a way to bring the family together: the process of learning French can become a beautiful opportunity to bring the family together. Children and grandchildren can play a useful role in teaching older adults the use of technological devices for their French classes. This act of reciprocity not only strengthens family ties, but also empowers seniors, making them feel valued and that they are capable of learning something they consider complex.

Technology: your best ally for learning French

Many older adults might doubt their ability to handle technology, but the reality is that it is all very intuitive and easier than they think, and there is always someone who can guide them in case they need help. French learning devices, such as phones, tablets and laptops, are the best allies to study at any time and from the comfort of home.

In addition, these technologies give you access to a wide range of resources, such as e-books, podcasts, videos and educational games that can be configured to be in French.

Recommendations for learning French as an adult

The adults in the house have already overcome a thousand and one challenges; for them, challenges are more feasible because they have the self-confidence and wisdom that comes from life experience. My best recommendation is to look at French as a language that activates brain function and opens doors to new perspectives. If they have the possibility to travel and retake the air of adventure, connecting with the French-speaking culture can be a very good decision.

France and Canada, in particular, are very attractive destinations for French speakers. Canada is the most accessible country in terms of immigration policies because it offers opportunities for those who speak the language at a conversational level. So if you are looking to add a little extra to your life and want to keep your brain function active, studying the language of love and elegance will be your best decision.

If you want to get to know our language school for Canada, Planeta Immiland, and start a new episode in your life, you can explore the French courses that we offer here.

I hope you liked this topic and can share it with your family and interested friends. Thank you for reading. If you have any questions please contact us at and we will be happy to help you from day one.

With love,

Planeta Immiland Education