New study suggests music could be key to reducing dementia risk
In this DML Report…
A Monash University study published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry analyzed over 10,800 individuals aged 70 and older to assess music engagement's impact on dementia risk and cognitive decline. Researchers evaluated frequency of music listening—categorized as always, sometimes, rarely, or never—and whether participants regularly played musical instruments. Outcomes measured included dementia incidence, cognitive decline in memory, reasoning, and problem-solving, plus scores for recalling everyday events. The analysis revealed that consistent music involvement correlates with significantly reduced risks compared to minimal or no engagement.
Participants who always listened to music showed a 39 percent lower dementia risk than those listening sometimes, rarely, or never, alongside a 17 percent reduced incidence of cognitive decline and higher everyday recall scores. Regularly playing an instrument, such as guitar, was linked to a 35 percent drop in dementia risk. Combining both activities yielded a 33 percent decrease in dementia possibility and 22 percent reduction in cognitive impairment. These associations held across the large cohort, indicating music's role in preserving brain function.
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The findings align with projections of U.S. dementia cases doubling by 2060, with half of Americans facing cognitive decline after age 55, and no existing cure. Supporting research from the University of Exeter confirms benefits from varied music engagement for brain health in aging, while lifelong listening improves memory. A prior study in Alzheimer Disease and Associated Disorders noted enhanced nonverbal communication in dementia patients via music. Additional modifiable dementia risks include smoking, hearing loss, poor diet, excess alcohol, and inactivity.