The surprising activities that can slow biological ageing and have a similar impact to exercise

Key Points:

• A study analyzing nearly 2,000 adults aged 50 and over in England found that regular cultural engagement, such as attending cinema, theatre, concerts, museums, and galleries, is associated with delayed biological ageing comparable to frequent exercise.
• Participants with higher cultural engagement scores showed a physiological age approximately three years younger than those with less frequent cultural participation, based on assessments of 10 physiological markers.
• Higher cultural engagement was more common among women, employed individuals, and those with better health, suggesting cultural activities may support healthy ageing and could serve as a modifiable intervention for longevity.
• Researchers recommend increasing access to cultural events and community-based cultural programs to promote mental and physical health, highlighting benefits like improved emotional well-being and social involvement among older adults.
• Supporting findings from University College London emphasize that arts and cultural activities provide diverse physical, cognitive, emotional, and social stimulation, reinforcing their recognition as health-promoting behaviors akin to exercise.