New research suggests that listening to music on a regular basis may significantly reduce the risk of developing dementia in older people. A study of older adults found that those who reported listening to music on most days of the week had a 39 per cent lower risk of developing dementia than non-listeners.
Study Overview
A group of researchers undertook a study of 10,800 older adults to examine the lifestyle links to diseases including dementia. The people who generally listened to music on a more regular basis had the greatest decrease in the risk of developing dementia from those who did not listen to music as regularly. The study did not detail which type of music would be the best for dementia.
Key findings
Listening to music on most days was associated with a decrease in the incidence of dementia of 39 per cent. Participants who played a musical instrument also had a decrease in the incidence of dementia, but this finding suggests that any active engagement to music may have a beneficial effect. People who listened to and played music consistently experienced the maximum protective effect.
Why Music Might Help
While the study does not show that music prevents the development of dementia in itself, there are a number of reasons which may make this an acceptable hypothesis:
Music arouses memories in many areas of the brain, including those communicating with areas of memory, emotion and sensory input.
Listening to familiar music can excite memories that are powerful and probably maintain the thought patterns excited by memory alive.
An interest in music is often part of an intricate lifestyle with intellectual stimulation and mental wellbeing, both of which are essential for healthy brain functioning.
Although more research is needed, the findings suggest that incorporating regular music listening into daily life may be a simple, enjoyable way to support cognitive health as we age. Whether it’s listening to favorite tunes, attending live performances, or playing an instrument, music can be a valuable part of a brain-healthy lifestyle.
