New research suggests that listening to and playing music Dementia risk Maybe they’ll sing a new song.
Adults over the age of 70 who regularly listen to music were nearly 40% less likely to develop dementia, a group of cognitive disorders that cause a decline in memory, thinking, and other mental abilities, according to a new study from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia.
Those who listened to music regularly had a 39% lower risk of developing dementia and improved memory, while those who played a musical instrument had a 35% lower risk.
Research reveals why “very elderly” can maintain “excellent memory” even in their 80s
Researchers led by Monash honors student Emma Jaffa and Professor Joanne Ryan found that doing both provided even greater protection against cognitive decline.
“There is currently no cure for dementia, so identifying strategies to prevent or delay the onset of dementia is critical,” Ryan said. statement.
“Evidence suggests that brain aging is not only influenced by age and genetics, but can also be influenced by an individual’s environment and lifestyle choices,” she added.
As part of a long-term Australian study, more than 10,800 adults aged 70 and older were followed for several years and asked whether they listened to or played music all the time, often, sometimes, rarely, or never, according to a paper published last month in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.
Listening to and playing music regularly also reduced the risk of mild symptoms. cognitive impairment, It was 22% milder than dementia and was associated with higher scores in overall cognition and episodic memory, which helps remember everyday events.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 57 million people worldwide are affected by dementia, and while this finding suggests that music may be an easy way to protect cognitive function, it does not prove that music directly prevents dementia.
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The researchers noted, “Although a causal relationship cannot be proven, musical activity may be an accessible strategy to maintain cognitive health in older adults.”
overall benefits of music This trend was most pronounced among older adults with higher education levels, that is, those who had completed at least 16 years of schooling, but results were mixed among older adults with intermediate levels of education.
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The findings add to a growing body of research showing that creatively, socially and mentally stimulating hobbies such as music, reading and art can have benefits. keep your brain healthy A 2022 meta-analysis conducted in the United States and Japan reported similar benefits for older adults who play musical instruments.
Dr Morten Scheibei-Knudsen, associate professor of aging at the University of Copenhagen, warned that although mental stimulation is being encouraged, the science around it is not yet established.
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“It’s generally recommended to train your brain, but the data isn’t really that clear,” he said recently. BBC Science Focus, They point out that studies on activities such as music, puzzles, and learning new skills have shown mixed results.
Still, “playing a musical instrument also has additional benefits, such as increased social interaction, which we know is very important as we get older,” he said.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the study authors for comment.
