France via Didsbury: Octogenarians Embrace Language Learning

France via Didsbury: Octogenarians Embrace Language Learning

‘Bonjour, ça va?’ is the phrase ringing in and around Didsbury as residents at Belong Morris Feinmann prove you’re never too old to learn something new by partaking in French lessons designed to boost brain health and foster companionship.

The community, typically aged 80 and older, have been immersed in all things français, speaking, singing and even acting out their joie de vivre as they get to grips with a departure from their mother tongue.

Under the tuition of language teacher, Liz Syed of Languagility, the participants are tutored gently, learning via interactive games, live music, entertainment, and even adopting a touch of Parisian style, donning berets and playing games of Pétanque, the country’s version of bowls.

Colin Moss, resident at Belong Morris Feinmann, said: “I used to be bilingual, and my French had all but disappeared. Now, I have few words I can say again. We wear berets, we sing, and we have a lot of fun. Très, très, heureux!”

Angela Luckett, experience and cultural coordinator at Belong Morris Feinmann, explains more: “The goal isn’t to achieve fluency; it’s about a sense of achievement and the chance for collaboration, as well as stimulating our residents’ senses – all to enhance their overall wellbeing. It’s certainly supported their self-confidence over the past few weeks.”

Academic research shows people who speak a second language are less likely to develop dementia, the onset of which can be delayed by up to 4.5 years¹, and bilingualism has also been found to lead to better cognitive outcomes for those who have experienced strokes². Across the board, learning a language in later life is beneficial, with findings including improvements in attention, memory, and verbal fluency.³

The French sessions form part of Belong Morris Feinmann’s vibrant experiences programme designed around its customers’ preferences. Upcoming events include a pottery throwdown, and live entertainment from classical violinists, a ‘60s tribute act, and visiting piano lounge.

Angela finishes: “It’s been great fun. We’ve had much reminiscence of holidays and trips abroad and everyone has delighted in learning together. You really are never too old to have a go at something new – that’s very much our mantra, here.”

Pictured: Colin Moss, Belong Morris Feinmann resident, gets into French swing of things for the language session