Description
COURSE DESCRIPTION
A proverb says: “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks”, and we know that this is something that can stop seniors from learning new languages.
New Research on Neuroplasticity from Edinburgh University states that BILINGUALISM improves cognition when you reach the age of 50! Thomas Bak, the lead researcher, says that learning a second language later in life can make the brain more flexible and efficient. Learning a new single word every day and doing regular mental exercise will make the brain focus more and remember better.
Just as physical exercise strengthens our bodies, cognitive learning stimulates the brain. The more we challenge the mind with various mental exercises, the better it is at processing information. Switching from one language to the other decreases cognitive decline and can delay the initial effects of memory loss, dementia, alzheimer, anxiety and depression.
So, yes, WE HAVE TO ‘teach an old dog new tricks’ because IT’S HEALTHY!
While there remains no cure for diseases like Alzheimer, better tools and services are needed to slow seniors’ cognitive decline, and provide support for their caregivers. That’s why we created ¨Cognitive Spanish for SENIORS¨
This program is designed for people who are 50+ years old, younger and older learners are also accepted if they have the same objectives.
8 online lessons (50 minutes/ lesson)
One – to – one sessions – 50 minutes, 2 LESSONS/WEEK are possible upon request.
Group sessions (maximum 3 or 4 Seniors) are possible upon request.
Learners can choose their own schedule (to be confirmed before the first session. Subject to availability.)
Changing the date or the hour of the session is also possible. Please provide at least 12 hours’ notice.
COURSE CONTENT
8 online lessons* (50 minutes/ lesson). 9 Spanish Cognitive Fitness Activities for Seniors:
- Guess the word in Spanish. You´ll have a look at an image and guess simple words in Spanish
- Crosswords. You´ll exercise your memory, finding out the words and learning new vocabulary in Spanish
- Scrambled words game. Rearrange the letters and form a word in Spanish
- Match the words or simple sentences. Match each word/sentence in the left-hand column with the words/sentences in the right-hand column
- Reading. Read a little bit every day and improve your pronunciation in Spanish
- Hidden Words. Can you find the hidden words?
- Spanish podcasts. You´ll listen and try to understand a basic conversation in Spanish
- Spanish… with your hands. We speak, you listen to simple sentences, draw a picture and describe it in 3 words
- Visit Spain with us. We’ll take you in a virtual trip to ‘visit’ our amazing country and to teach you about its culture, customs and gastronomy
BENEFITS
- keep your brain healthy
- make new friends
- keep social and you don’t feel alone
- have a higher self–esteem
- your new activity releases endorphins in the brain and puts you in a good mood
- have fun and feel happy
- can call your new friends and practice Spanish with them
- write and read letters in Spanish to and from your loved ones, just like in old, good times.
*Ask for a quote for face-to-face lessons in Gran Canaria
At Mixitup Academy, our mission is to make a difference in each life we touch by providing learning and education that inspires Seniors to live life to the fullest. Yes, ‘Age is a state of mind’
WHAT IS THE TARGET AUDIENCE?
This course is designed for BEGINNERS 0, A1, A2, INTERMEDIATE LEVEL B1
COURSE BONUSES
- Native Spanish Teacher
- Printable games worksheets
COURSE PRICE
Ask for prices
Bonnie (verified owner)
When I first met Fernando I was 57. Now I am 61 and I am still learning with him. I have no problem speaking Spanish with Spaniards. They understand me. But it’s nice to have someone to chat and play with. I love the games Fernando prepares for me weekly, they keep me active and in a good mood. And Fernando is so patient with me! When I look back I can’t believe he made it so easy for me to learn Spanish. I look forward to going back to Spain and speak my favourite language.