Music Engagement May Reduce Dementia Risk by 40% in Older Adults, Study Finds
A new study conducted by Monash University in Australia has found that regular engagement with music, whether through listening or playing an instrument, is associated with a significantly reduced risk of dementia in older adults. Adults over 70 who regularly listen to music were found to have a 39% lower risk of developing dementia, a group of cognitive disorders that result in a decline in memory, thinking, and other mental abilities. Those who frequently played instruments showed a 35% lower risk of dementia, according to the research.
The study, published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, examined over 10,800 adults aged 70 and older who were tracked for several years. The analysis revealed that both listening to and playing music not only reduced the risk of dementia but also improved overall cognitive function and memory performance. Researchers led by Monash honors student Emma Jaffa and Professor Joanne Ryan emphasized that while the study does not prove a direct causal link between music engagement and dementia prevention, it highlights the potential of music as a lifestyle intervention to support brain health.
They noted that cognitive decline is influenced by a combination of age, genetics, and lifestyle factors, and that music activities may provide an accessible strategy for maintaining cognitive health in older adults. The benefits of music were most pronounced among those with higher educational backgrounds. However, the effects were less clear for individuals with moderate levels of education. The study’s findings contribute to a growing body of research suggesting that creative and mentally stimulating activities—such as music, reading, and art—may help preserve brain health in later life.
Dr. Morten Scheibye-Knudsen, an associate professor at the University of Copenhagen, acknowledged the potential benefits of musical engagement while cautioning that the evidence is not yet conclusive. He noted that while mental stimulation is encouraged, the science behind such activities remains uncertain, with studies showing mixed results.
Despite the limitations, the study underscores the importance of lifestyle choices in protecting cognitive health. With no known cure for dementia, identifying strategies to delay or prevent its onset remains a critical area of research. The researchers recommend further studies to explore the long-term effects of music engagement on cognitive function in older adults.