How bilingualism may help improve cognitive control in patients with aphasia
Bilingualism as a cognitive reserve factor: the behavioral and neural underpinnings of cognitive control in bilingual patients with aphasia
This study is looking at how being bilingual might help people with aphasia, especially after a stroke, to think and focus better than those who only speak one language, using special brain imaging tools to see how their brains work during tasks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10947073 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how being bilingual can enhance cognitive control in patients with aphasia, particularly after brain injuries like strokes. It aims to understand the behavioral and neural mechanisms that allow bilingual individuals to perform better than monolinguals in cognitive tasks. The study employs advanced imaging techniques such as functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and electroencephalography (EEG) to assess brain activity while participants engage in cognitive tasks in more natural settings. By comparing bilingual and monolingual patients, the research seeks to identify factors that contribute to cognitive resilience in the face of neurological challenges.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are bilingual individuals who have experienced aphasia due to brain injuries or strokes.
Not a fit: Patients who are monolingual or do not have aphasia may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive rehabilitation strategies for patients with aphasia, enhancing their recovery and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the cognitive advantages of bilingualism, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University (Charles River Campus) — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carpenter, Erin — Boston University (Charles River Campus)
- Study coordinator: Carpenter, Erin
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.