Promoting Cognitive Health in Older Adults through an Exercise Game Centered around Foreign Language Learning

Aging is a primary contributor to cognitive decline. Existing research demonstrates that Aerobic Exercise (AE) induces significant functional neuroplasticity changes, enhancing cognitive function. Foreign language learning (FLL) also positively impacts cognitive health and may offer resistance to age-related cognitive decline. Addressing the gap in studying the combined effects of AE and FLL on cognitive benefits, we designed an intervention using a screen-based virtual biking tour to enhance cognitive health in older adults. Our project investigates whether the simultaneous integration of AE and FLL yields superior cognitive and language learning outcomes compared to FLL learning alone. In a preliminary analysis with a small sample, we observed significantly improved Spanish language learning outcomes in both combined physical and language learning groups. The significant cognitive function improvements are also observed in the FLL group after a short-term language learning.