Music has long been recognized for its ability to improve mood and support emotional well-being. Now, new research suggests it may also be linked to healthy brain aging.
A large study led by researchers at Monash University followed more than 10,800 adults over the age of 70 for approximately a decade. The findings indicate that older adults who regularly engaged with music—including listening to it or playing an instrument—were less likely to develop dementia during the study period.
The researchers emphasize that the study identified an association rather than proving that music directly prevents dementia.
What the Research Found
Published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, the study examined how different leisure activities were related to long-term cognitive health.
Among the findings:
| Musical Activity | Observed Association |
|---|---|
| Listening to music regularly | Associated with about a 39% lower risk of dementia during the study period |
| Playing a musical instrument | Associated with about a 35% lower risk of dementia during the study period |
The researchers noted that both activities were linked with positive cognitive outcomes, although additional research is needed to better understand the relationship.
Why Music May Support Brain Health
Scientists believe music engages several regions of the brain at the same time.
Listening to or performing music can involve areas responsible for memory, attention, emotion, language, and auditory processing. This broad pattern of brain activity has led researchers to investigate whether regular musical engagement may help support cognitive function as people age.
The study also found that participants who regularly engaged with music tended to perform better on measures of episodic memory, which is the ability to recall personal experiences and events.
While these findings are encouraging, researchers caution that they do not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
A Healthy Habit That Many People Enjoy
Experts generally recommend a combination of lifestyle habits to support healthy aging.
Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, good sleep, social interaction, managing cardiovascular health, and mentally engaging activities all play important roles in maintaining cognitive health.
For many older adults, listening to music or playing an instrument can be an enjoyable addition to these healthy lifestyle practices.
This large study adds to growing evidence that regular engagement with music may be associated with healthier cognitive aging.
Although more research is needed to determine whether music directly reduces dementia risk, the findings suggest that incorporating music into everyday life may be one enjoyable way to support overall brain health as part of a broader healthy lifestyle.