I just came across a Monash University led study that I thought this community would appreciate, especially those of us who’ve racked up hundreds (…or thousands 😅) of hours spinning records, streaming playlists, and noodling on instruments over the years.
Researchers looked at 10,800+ adults aged 70+ and found some pretty striking correlations:
- Regular music listening (“always”) = 39% lower risk of dementia
(compared to folks who “never/rarely/sometimes” listen)
- Playing an instrument = 35% lower dementia risk
- Music listening also linked to a 17% lower rate of cognitive impairment and better overall cognition + episodic memory
- Doing both listening + playing? 33% decreased dementia risk + 22% lower cognitive impairment.
The data came from the ASPREE and ALSOP studies, and while it can’t prove causation, the researchers point out that cognitive aging isn’t just genetics, lifestyle matters just as much. And it turns out music might be one of the most accessible, enjoyable “interventions” we have.
Professor Joanne Ryan summed it up nicely: as lifespans get longer, preventing or delaying dementia becomes critical and habits like listening to or playing music may support healthier brain aging.
So yeah…
All those hours we’ve spent chasing better sound, tweaking gear, and playing music might actually be doing our brains a favor.
Not a bad justification for the next upgrade either. 😉
Do you feel your listening sessions are mentally stimulating or “therapeutic”? Anyone here notice differences in focus, memory, or mood depending on how much you listen or play?
Happy listening and apparently, healthy listening too. 🎶🧠
