Listening to music may protect against dementia: Study
A new study of over 10,000 Australians aged 70+ found that older adults who often listened to or played music had a much lower risk of developing dementia or cognitive decline.
The results were published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.
How much is too much?
Always listening to music was tied to a 39% lower risk of dementia, while regularly playing an instrument cut the risk by 35%.
Doing both dropped dementia risk by about a third and also lowered chances of milder cognitive issues.
Boosting brainpower
Music engagement wasn't just about lowering risks—it was also linked with better memory and thinking skills, especially for those with more years of education.
The takeaway: making music or simply enjoying your favorite playlists could be an easy way to support your brain health as you get older.