Most people give up on learning a second language as they dive into their later years of life, but plenty of language classes are available that make it possible for education to take root. However, it might be intimidating to access a class for language learning – are there any age limits on attending a language course?
There are many benefits to learning a new language. Although there are some hiccups older adults might hit if embarking on a language-learning adventure later in life, it’s still a worthy endeavor that will positively impact the brand. Keep reading as we dive into the age restrictions for language learning and other helpful information.
Is There An Age Restriction for Language Classes?
Typically, there is no age restriction on language classes – especially if you take them online. There are many different options available, whether you can leave your home or need to take the class from a secondary location. If there is an age restriction, the information will typically be revealed in the title or course description.
An age restriction might be in place if:
- The course is at a specific school
- The education is tailored to a specific age group
These are just a few reasons an age restriction might be in place.
However, most language classes don’t have any form of age restriction. No matter your age, it’s possible to participate in any language education course – even if there are some fundamental differences between the brain of a senior and a child.
Is It Possible for Adults to Learn a Language?
Much like kids, adults can learn a new language. Through exposure and immersion, many fully grown humans will thrive and adopt a new language with enough practice and time spent around those fluent in the diction. However, it isn’t as easy for an adult to take on this task as a child.
Even though it can be trickier for an adult to learn a new language, it’s worth it. One study shows that speaking two or more languages as an adult protects the brain, even if the individual learns the second language as an adult.
Age and Language Acquisition
One study shows that language acquisition is best in the human brain from 0-10 years old. If a child starts learning at any point from birth until ten, they will acquire the language much faster. Past the ten-year mark, an individual’s ability to learn a new language will go down significantly.
Of course, this lowered ability to learn doesn’t mean adults can’t learn a new language. However, it will take much work, patience, and effort (such as through a language class) if you are out of your teenage years and into seniority.
Related: Why Staying Socially Connected is Important as You Age
What’s the Best Time of Day to Learn a Language?
There is no wrong time of day to learn a new language – it all depends on what works best for your brain. However, there are patterns to observe when it comes to when people tend to learn languages that best suit them.
According to babbel.com, their data for people using their language learning services shows that the most popular time to learn is 5 P.M., followed by 6 P.M., 10 A.M., 11 A.M., and 7 P.M.. It seems the majority of people choose to do their learning at night rather than in the morning.
Ultimately, it’s best to learn a language whenever you have a decent amount of time. Whether that means sitting with a cup of coffee in the morning or with your dessert in the evening, every person’s best learning ability is different.
Different Types of Language Classes and Accessibility
One of the perks of living in a modern world is that there are many ways to learn languages. Some courses might be great for others, and some less than ideal – there is something out there for everyone.
Let’s talk about a few of the most common ways you can access language classes. Whether you can leave your home or not, there is an option for seniors to learn more about language classes and accessibility for all.
Online
One of the most common places to learn a new language is online. While there are some courses with video professors you can take, most use popular programs and apps that allow learners to progress on their own time.
A few popular sites for learning a new language include the following:
- Babbel
- Duolingo
- Rosetta Stone
These are just a few of the best places to learn something new. Most offer a free version if you just want the basics and to test it out. However, you’ll get maximum value by paying for the premium subscription on any of these.
Related: The Best Language Learning Apps
Adult Education
There are also many adult education options if you want to learn a new language. In many senior living facilities or community centers, there are often class options for those who want to test out a new language.
Adult education courses provide comfort to many because you can learn surrounded by your peers. Many require travel to another location.
University
If you’re feeling determined, you can always leap and go back to a university. This option is the most expensive – but possible for seniors.
Although major colleges are pricey, many community colleges will waive or reduce fees for those over 65. Some colleges also allow interested individuals to take individual courses, so you don’t have to attend to get a specific degree.
Final Thoughts
There are no age limits to language classes unless you want to take a course specifically aimed at a specific age group or at a university where only attendees are permitted to participate. You can use online learning classes to adapt a new language to your schedule.
Although it might take more effort to grasp a new language as a senior, it’s worth it! There are tons of benefits to understanding and speaking a new language. A language learning class is the best place to begin.
Learning a language to make traveling easier? Check out our article Healthy Travel as an Older Adult, for more tips and tricks for traveling in your later years!
