A groundbreaking study led by Monash University in Australia has revealed that listening to or playing music in later life may significantly reduce the risk of developing dementia. The study, which involved more than 10,800 older adults, found that people aged above 70 who regularly listened to music had a 39 percent lower risk of dementia compared to those who rarely or never did so.
Listening to music may reduce dementia risk by 39 percent
The research published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that listening to music may reduce dementia risk by 39 percent, along with a 17 percent lower incidence of cognitive impairment. Participants who regularly engaged with music scored higher in overall cognition and episodic memory, the kind of memory used to recall daily experiences.
Playing instruments also linked to better brain health
Playing a musical instrument showed equally encouraging results, with a 35 percent lower risk of dementia among those who regularly played. Those involved in both listening and playing music had a 33 percent lower risk of dementia and a 22 percent lower rate of cognitive impairment.
Music as an accessible tool for cognitive wellness
Lead researcher Emma Jaffa from Monash University said, “Music activities may be an accessible strategy for maintaining cognitive health in older adults, though causation cannot be established.” She added that these findings could guide future public health strategies to help older populations stay mentally active.
Lifestyle choices influence brain ageing
Senior author Professor Joanne Ryan highlighted that brain ageing is influenced not only by genetics or age but also by environmental and lifestyle factors. “With no cure for dementia, lifestyle-based interventions like listening to or playing music can promote cognitive health and potentially delay the onset of the disease,” she said.
The findings are based on data from the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) study and its longitudinal sub-study, which track health outcomes in older adults. As dementia cases rise globally, these results suggest that a simple act like listening to music could play a vital role in healthy ageing.
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