Deel van de hersenen dat taal verwerkt blijkt nauwelijks te verouderen

The brain does not age when it comes to language processing.

28 august 2026

Good news for everyone learning or wanting to learn a language: new research (source: de Volkskrant – https://www.volkskrant.nl/cs-b5a10ae5/) shows that the part of the brain that processes language hardly ages. While functions such as memory and attention often decline over time, our ability to understand language remains remarkably strong. This demonstrates that language holds a special place in our brain.

Researchers discovered that older adults process language in virtually the same way as younger adults, even with complex sentences and unfamiliar words. A possible explanation is that vocabulary and language experience continue to grow throughout life. As a result, language proficiency can not only be maintained but even develop further in certain areas.

At STE Languages, we see this reflected in practice every day. Age need not be a barrier to learning a new language or further improving existing skills. Whether you want to learn Dutch, English, or another language, the research underscores a wonderful message that we are happy to share. Learning knows no age, and it is never too late to start language training.