Study Suggests Music May Help Reduce Dementia Risk in Older Adults

A new study indicates that both listening to and playing music could be beneficial in lowering the risk of dementia for older adults. Conducted by researchers at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, the findings suggest that those aged 70 and above who frequently engage with music were almost 40% less likely to develop dementia—a group of cognitive disorders impacting memory and mental abilities.

Specifically, the research shows that regular music listeners enjoyed a 39% reduction in dementia risk and improvement in memory, while those who played an instrument experienced a 35% lower risk. Interestingly, participating in both activities seems to offer even greater protective benefits against cognitive decline, as noted by Emma Jaffa, a Monash honors student, and Professor Joanne Ryan.

“There’s currently no cure for dementia, so finding strategies to prevent—or at least delay—the onset is extremely important,” Ryan remarked. “It’s believed that brain aging isn’t solely a matter of age or genetics; rather, factors like environment and lifestyle choices also play a role.”

In a long-term Australian study involving over 10,800 adults aged 70 and older, participants were continuously monitored over several years, reporting how often they listened to or played music, from regular engagement to rarely or never. The results revealed that those who actively engaged with music also experienced a 22% decrease in the risk of milder cognitive impairment.

According to the World Health Organization, around 57 million individuals globally are impacted by dementia. While the study highlights music as a potentially effective method for protecting cognitive function, it stops short of definitively stating that music prevents dementia.

Researchers acknowledged, “Although we can’t establish a causal link, engaging in musical activities may be an accessible way to maintain cognitive health in older adults.” They observed the most significant music-related benefits among older individuals with higher education levels—those with at least 16 years of schooling—while results varied for those with moderate educational backgrounds.

This adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that hobbies that are creative, socially engaging, and mentally stimulating, like music and the arts, can support brain health in later years. A meta-analysis conducted in 2022 highlighted similar findings regarding older adults and musical instruments.

Dr. Morten Scheibei-Knudsen, an associate professor of aging at the University of Copenhagen, cautioned that while mental stimulation is encouraged, the science surrounding it still lacks clarity. “We often recommend brain training, but the data remains inconclusive,” he noted, pointing out that studies on various activities—music, puzzles, and learning new skills—yield mixed outcomes.

However, he did mention that playing an instrument not only bolsters cognitive function but also promotes increased social interaction, which is vital as people age.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the study’s authors for further insights.