Page 10 THE VILLADOM TIMES IV • April 10. 2013 Seniors who are bilingual and have spoken two or more languages since their youth may have cognitive advantages over adults who have only spoken one language their entire lives. A new study headed by Brian Gold, a neuroscientist at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, which was published in the journal Neuroscience, found that bilingualism leads to heightened mental skills. In the study, participants were divided into three groups: bilingual seniors, monolingual seniors, and younger adults. Each group was instructed to sort colors and shapes in a series of simple cognitive exercises. The researchers used a brain imaging technique to compare how well the subjects switched between mental tasks. The results indicated there were different patterns of brain activity among the groups when the tasks were being completed. The patterns showed that bilingual seniors were able to switch between tasks and activate their brains in a manner closer to the younger subjects. They didn’t have Cognitive ability better among the bilingual to expend much effort, and they out-performed their peers who were monolingual. The researchers surmised the bilingual seniors were using their brains more efficiently. Other studies have shown bilingualism pays even more dividends, including improved cognitive function in those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. A study titled, “Lifelong Bilingualism Maintains Neural Efficiency for Cognitive Control in Aging,” found that even though seniors who spoke dual languages had more brain atrophy due to Alzheimer’s, they were still able to function better than individuals with lower levels of atrophy who spoke one language. Researchers believe that being bilingual strengthens the brain’s capacity for doing work, even if it is working at a deficit. The jury is still out as to whether learning a second language or moving to a foreign country as an adult can provide the same level of cognitive advantage as being bilingual from childhood. However, learning a new language can help keep the brain sharp. Many experts now believe learning a second language is no harder when you’re getting on in years than when you’re a child. There are different methods to learn a new language: • foreign language tapes • grammar/vocabulary books from a child's foreign language class • a foreign language tutor • vocabulary index cards • moving to a foreign country and learning through immersion Bilingual seniors have distinct cognitive advantages over other people who are monolingual. Urging children to learn a new language or learning as an adult can have profound effects on mental abilities. atients who enter Dr. Krieger’s practice with any number of dental issues soon emerge with healthy and attractive smiles. The doctor and his certified team of professionals have been providing comprehensive, preventative dentistry for adults and children since 2002. Dr. Krieger provides mercury-free tooth colored fillings, single-visit crowns (no impressions necessary), single-visit root canals, extractions, periodontal treatments, dental implants, TMJ treatment, oral cancer screenings, and custom athletic mouth Dr. Matthew Krieger guards. Sedation is available for patients who experience anxiety. Cosmetic treatments include porcelain veneers, one-hour in-office tooth whitening, cosmetic bonding, and Invisalign™ for state-of-the-art tooth straightening. The office is equipped with digital X-rays, which use 90 percent less radiation than the traditional method. Dr. Krieger provides flexible scheduling options, including early morning hours, evenings, and 24-hour emergency care. Clear and affordable financial arrangements are made with each patient, and flexible payment options and interest-free financing are available. The office participates with most insurance plans, and provides in-house dental benefits for those without insurance. Dr. Krieger graduated near the top of his class from New Jersey Dental School in 1998. He completed his Hospital Based General Practice Residencies at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City and at The Bronx VA Hospital. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the New Jersey Dental Association, the Bergen County Dental Association, The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and The Crown Council. He has completed 500 hours of continuing education in cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Dr. Krieger’s office is located at 795 Franklin Avenue, Suite 3, in Franklin Lakes. Call (201) 560-0606. Additional information is available online at mkdmd.com. P Let Doctor Matthew Krieger, D.M.D., enhance your smile