Playing Music Can Help Aging Brain Health, Study Says
HuffPost • • health
Key Points:
- A 2024 study in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that playing musical instruments supports cognitive health and may reduce age-related cognitive decline, especially improving memory and executive function.
- The study involved 1,107 UK participants over age 40, with findings indicating that playing keyboard-based instruments like piano had the greatest cognitive benefits, followed by brass and woodwind instruments.
- Singing also showed cognitive benefits, likely due to social interaction involved in group singing, which is recognized as protective for brain health.
- Experts emphasize that engaging in music builds cognitive reserve, helping maintain brain function even in the presence of brain atrophy linked to dementia, and benefits can be gained regardless of age.
- While genetics influence dementia risk, maintaining an active cognitive lifestyle through music, social activities, and physical exercise can slow cognitive decline and improve long-term brain health.
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