The Cordwainer has partnered with Lingo Flamingo, a not-for-profit organization that provides custom foreign language classes for older adults and those living with dementia.
Founded in Glasgow, Scotland, Lingo Flamingo’s programming offers fun, sensory linguistic experiences to improve the well-being of seniors, specifically through building confidence, creating connections between learners, stimulating the mind, and offering something new and exciting.
Language learning and dementia are interconnected in profound ways.
Research-Based Lingo Flamingo Courses
Lingo Flamingo’s program is based on studies published by the University of Edinburgh that show those who are able to speak a second language tend to develop dementia up to five years later than those individuals who can only speak one.
This level of prevention is greater than anything currently offered in the fields of medicine or pharmacology, and it’s for such reasons that many are calling for language learning to be viewed as part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle, much like exercising or maintaining a balanced diet.
“Language learning keeps the brain active and leads to measurable cognitive improvements, particularly when compared to less taxing, more familiar activities,” said Somita Ray, Director of Memory Care Programming at The Cordwainer.
Language learning keeps the brain active and leads to measurable cognitive improvements…
How We Teach Residents New Languages
Lingo Flamingo directly trains The Cordwainer’s Learned Environment℠ team, providing workbooks and lesson planning for foreign language exploration and learning including Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, and German.
Each training session is held on Zoom, lasting over an hour. Here is some insight into the knowledge our associates are obtaining:
Session One content of Lingo Flamingo focuses on the general foundations of learning a new language with dementia.
- A discussion of why we value language learning, focusing on the research and benefits for residents.
- The opportunities and challenges of language learning with senior learners.
- The importance of dementia awareness and how to counteract symptoms.
- An explanation of the classes’ objectives and how to create a positive impact.
- The key elements of what a class looks like.
Session Two content is based on the specifics:
- Reminiscing.
- Energizers and movement.
- Games.
- Multisensory learning.
- Lesson planning.
- How to make the most of resources.
- How to improve lessons with critical thinking.
- Question-and-answer (Q&A) sessions.
More About Norwell Dementia Care for Continual Learning & Well-Being
The Cordwainer is located on Cordwainer Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts and offers boutique-style senior living in 54 well-appointed suites.
Community amenities include all-inclusive pricing, spacious living, dining and activity rooms, indoor and outdoor sensory gardens, a wood workshop, barbershop and salon, a private suite for families, and performance and rejuvenation centers. Services include an on-site executive chef, nursing and personal care assistants, wellness programs, laundry and housekeeping, medication management, transportation, and more.
At The Cordwainer, we believe that meaningful experiences and innovative initiatives are essential for enriching the lives of our residents. Our partnership with the language-learning program Lingo Flamingo exemplifies this commitment, blending evidence-based approaches with engaging, multisensory activities for cognitive health and social connection.
Experience The Cordwainer’s Commitment to Excellence for Your Family
For more information about The Cordwainer’s state-of-the-art community and programs, contact us today.
