A large-scale study of more than 10,800 older adults has found that regularly listening to or playing music is linked to a dramatically lower risk of developing dementia.
In fact, those who always listened to music had a 39% lower risk of dementia compared to those who rarely tuned in.
Playing an instrument offered similar benefits, reducing risk by 35%.
The research, led by Monash honours student Emma Jaffa and Professor Joanne Ryan, drew on data from the long-running ASPREE (ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly) study and its ALSOP (ASPREE Longitudinal Study of Older Persons) sub-study. The findings were published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.
Beyond lowering dementia risk, the study revealed that consistent music engagement was also tied to a 17% lower incidence of cognitive impairment and better performance in memory and overall thinking skills. Those who both played and listened to music regularly showed a 33% drop in dementia risk and a 22% decrease in cognitive impairment – a harmonious combination indeed.
“Our findings suggest that music activities may be an accessible strategy for maintaining cognitive health in older adults,” says Jaffa. “While we can’t yet say music directly prevents dementia, the association is strong and encouraging.”
With global populations living longer than ever, age-related cognitive decline has become one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. And while there’s still no cure for dementia, studies like this one underscore the power of lifestyle choices in protecting brain health.
“Brain ageing isn’t determined solely by our genes or the number of candles on our birthday cake,” says Professor Ryan. “Our environment and daily habits – like listening to or playing music – can have a real impact on cognitive health.”
So whether it’s humming along to your favourite tune, dusting off that old guitar, or simply creating a playlist of songs that make you smile, your brain may thank you for it. Because when it comes to staying sharp, it seems that music really is medicine for the mind.
SOURCE: Monash University
