How to learn English at 50

When we think about someone learning a language for the first time, many of us will think of a child, or a young person. However, just because we typically tend to learn languages at an early age, it does not mean you cannot learn in later life, too. In fact, linguists have discovered that we have the potential to learn more than one new language, at any point in life! There are also many benefits to learning English later in life. So, if you are 50 or over, or know someone who is, read on to learn how to learn English at 50.

There are many benefits to learning a language later in your life. These are just a few examples: 

You are never too old to have adventures. Learning a language opens new possibilities in life, including traveling. If you learn English, you will broaden your horizons and be able to meet and speak to native English speakers. So, you can finally book that holiday you have always wanted to go on! 

Whether you are looking for a promotion or want a complete career change, learning English can have significant benefits for your career, including in your 50s. Taking an online Business English course can teach you key skills needed in the workplace, such as how to negotiate, lead meetings, and give feedback.

As a globally recognized language, English helps us build bridges and form new bonds with others. Just like any other hobby, it makes life more enjoyable. Plus, you are sure to meet new people at the same time. If you choose to learn English as part of an online English course, group classes are full of like-minded people who have the same goal as you. You might even make some friends for life!

If you are learning English in later life, chances are you will already have a lot of life experience and be able to speak confidently in your native language about yourself and your opinions. All you need to do is learn how to translate that confidence into English! Or, if you want to improve your confidence, speaking English is a great way to do so. EF English Live’s amazing teachers work with our learners to guide and motivate them, helping to improve their speaking confidence.  

Learning a language involves many skills that help to keep our brains active and healthy. Problem solving, attention span and focus, creativity, and memory are all key skills that you will develop when learning English. Some studies have even suggested that learning a second language can help to prevent cognitive diseases like dementia.  

Now you know some of the key benefits of learning English later on in life. So, how do you start learning? Read on for our top tips... 

Learning English is challenging but rewarding – and it can be fun, too. Here is how you can learn how to speak English like a native at 50, 60, or any age! 

Practicing every day is key if you want to learn a language properly. Even if it is just for a few minutes, make sure you are doing something in English each day. This could be practicing grammar, reading a newspaper article, speaking to a friend for ten minutes, or trying out a new English TV series. You could even translate recipes into English! 

Teaching methods have changed over the years and now one of the fastest ways to learn English is online. You will even find that there are specialized online English classes for adults. These courses are perfect if you have a busy life, if you need to study around your job, or if you travel a lot. You will find that they are also good for those who have been putting off learning English because they think it will be more difficult as an adult.

EF English Live offers English courses for adults that are completely flexible – you can practice 24/7, from anywhere, on any device. This allows you to seamlessly adapt the course to your personal life.

It can be daunting speaking English when it is not your first language. But practicing your speaking is the fastest way to fluency. In a group class, remember that everyone else is learning, too – or was once where you are. Forget your fear and any embarrassment and enjoy learning to express yourself in English.  

If you are an older learner, it can be beneficial having a friend to practice with. Do you know someone at work who has always wanted to learn English too? Or perhaps your neighbor has always dreamed of traveling to an English speaking country. Practicing with a friend is a sure way to improve your vocabulary and grammar knowledge. 

When you are in your 50s, you might not have much time to study. It is therefore important to learn English at the pace that suits you and your lifestyle. For example, if you work during the day, can you spend five to ten minutes learning vocabulary in the evening, or on your daily commute? If you like to wake up early, listen to an English podcast on your morning walk. It is all about taking the time to find what works best for your daily routine.  

Whether it is for work, travel, or your own personal enjoyment, there are so many reasons why people should learn English at 50 – and it can enrich your life no matter what age you are. We hope this article has given you the inspiration to start learning English. We are always here to help our amazing learners with their English learning goals, young or old. After all, age really is just a number.