Second Language Testing Inc., a company that focuses on language learning, has found that learning patterns change as we grow older. This testing company notes that adults learn languages analytically, while children learn via imitation and interaction. Because of the way children learn, they are able to imitate the sounds they hear with greater accuracy, including accents and inflections. As such, if you are learning a second language as an adult, you are less likely to pass as a native.
A recognized method of learning a new language is by immersion, whereby you live in a place where only the target language is spoken. You are thus forced to use the language to interact with others and conduct simple business transactions. As adults, people have career and familial obligations that often prevent them from spending extended periods learning a foreign language in another country. One option for simulating this is to find a class in which only the target language is used.
Good health is a critical element of learning, and age-related health issues may affect the language learning process. For instance, the chance of hearing loss increases as we age, causing older students difficulty in comprehending speech. As of 2011, the National Institute of Health notes that one-third of Americans between 65 and 75 years old have impaired hearing. Many people also lose vision and memorization skills as they age. If such age-related health problems affect you, find a class that uses both auditory and visual learning activities, and does not emphasize short-term memorization techniques.
Due to the perception that adults do not learn foreign languages as easily children, one of major challenge adult learners face is a lack of faith in their abilities. Stephen Krashen, a linguistics scholar, has found that if you are overly anxious and lack motivation and self-esteem, this can impede your ability to learn a new language. Try reminding yourself that while children may have an edge in sounding like a native, your learning ability does not decline with age. Positive reinforcement from your language coach will also increase your confidence.