Effects of Multilingual Engagement and Physical Activity on Episodic Memory Performance

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of bilingualism and physical activity on episodic memory performance across the lifespan. Drawing on a sample of 172 bi-multilingual Norwegian L1 English L2 speakers, data were collected using the Language History Questionnaire (LHQ3.0) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF), along with an episodic memory task inspired by Babiloni et al. (2004). Generalized linear mixed models were employed to analyze the relationship between bilingual engagement, physical activity, and episodic memory performance. Results indicate a significant association in accuracy for successfully rejecting not seen stimuli. However, no significant effects were observed for physical activity, multilingual engagement, age, or sex on episodic memory performance. These null findings suggest a need for further investigation into the nuanced relationship between bilingualism, physical activity, and episodic memory, considering factors such as sample variability, study design, and task specificity. By addressing these complexities, future research can advance our understanding of cognitive function and inform interventions aimed at promoting healthy cognitive aging.