Engaging in music throughout your life is associated with better brain health in older age, according to a new study published by experts at the University of Exeter.

Engaging in music throughout your life is associated with better brain health in older age, according to a new study published by experts at the University of Exeter.

Scientists working on PROTECT, an online study open to people aged 40 and over, reviewed data from more than a thousand adults over the age of 40 to see the effect of playing a musical instrument—or singing in a choir—on brain health. Over 25,000 people have signed up for the PROTECT study, which has been running for 10 years.

The team reviewed participants’ musical experience and lifetime exposure to music, alongside results of cognitive testing, to determine whether musicality helps to keep the brain sharp in later life.

The paper, “The relationship between playing musical instruments and cognitive trajectories: Analysis from a UK aging cohort,” is published in International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.

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    1•8 months ago

    It wouldn’t surprise me if the act of playing an instrument helps. It’s a relaxing activity that gets your brain and hands working.

    I imagine any hobby is going to be a good thing though as long as it gets someone actively doing something.

    I mean, something’s only a hobby if they are actively doing it anyway. Playing an instrument, a challenging game, sports, all are hobbies that I’m sure help. Just consuming something like TV shows is not a hobby.