Listening to Music Lowers Dementia Risk for Seniors

Quick Smiles:

• Seniors who listen to or play music have dramatically reduced dementia risk
• A 39% lower chance of dementia seen in frequent music listeners
• Music activities also boost memory and cognitive scores

A major new study reveals that older adults who regularly listen to or play music experience a significant drop in their chances of developing dementia.

Researchers examined data from over 10,800 people aged over 70 and found that those who always listened to music had up to a 39% reduced risk of dementia compared to others.

Playing an instrument was linked to a 35% decrease in dementia risk, while those who engaged in both listening and playing saw a 33% reduction.

Frequent music listeners also enjoyed a 17% lower chance of cognitive impairment and performed better in overall thinking and memory tests.

“Evidence suggests that brain aging is not just based on age and genetics but can be influenced by one’s own environmental and lifestyle choices,” explained Professor Joanne Ryan of Monash University.

She added, “Our study suggests that lifestyle-based interventions, such as listening and/or playing music can promote cognitive health.”

Co-author Emma Jaffa noted, “Music activities may be an accessible strategy for maintaining cognitive health in older adults.”

Embracing music in daily life could be a joyful and simple way for seniors to support their well-being.

If you love hearing good news about healthy habits, consider sharing these uplifting findings with your community!

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