Regular Music Use May Support Brain Health in Later Life

Regularly listening to music after the age of 70 may be linked to a lower risk of dementia and cognitive decline. Researchers from Monash University analysed information from more than 10,800 older adults to explore how musical activities may relate to long-term brain health.

The study was led by Emma Jaffa, an honours student, and Professor Joanne Ryan. Their findings showed that adults who frequently listened to music had a 39 per cent lower likelihood of developing dementia compared with people who listened rarely, occasionally, or not at all.

Playing a musical instrument was also associated with possible cognitive benefits. Participants who regularly played an instrument had a 35 per cent lower risk of dementia than those who did not.

The results suggest that activities involving music engagement, listening, memory, attention, and emotional response may help support cognitive function in later life. However, the findings show an association and do not prove that music directly prevents dementia.

Evidence From Major Studies of Older Adults

The research used data from the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly study, known as ASPREE, and its related ASPREE Longitudinal Study of Older Persons. The findings were published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.

Participants who said they always listened to music showed the greatest benefits. They had a 39 per cent lower incidence of dementia and a 17 per cent lower incidence of cognitive impairment than those who listened less often. They also achieved stronger overall cognitive scores and performed better in episodic memory, which helps people remember personal experiences and everyday events.

Older adults who regularly combined music listening with playing a musical instrument also showed positive outcomes. This group had a 33 per cent lower risk of dementia and a 22 per cent lower risk of cognitive impairment.

A Simple Way to Encourage Cognitive Wellbeing

Lead researcher Emma Jaffa explained that musical activities could offer an affordable and widely available way to support brain health in older people. However, she also stressed that the study identified an association and could not prove that music directly prevents dementia.

The findings are particularly important as the global population continues to age. Longer life expectancy has contributed to increasing rates of age-related cognitive decline and dementia, creating additional pressure on families, carers, healthcare services, and public health systems.

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Everyday Habits May Influence Brain Ageing

Senior author Professor Joanne Ryan highlighted the need to identify practical methods that may delay the onset of dementia, especially because no cure is currently available.

She explained that brain ageing is influenced not only by age and genetics, but also by environmental factors and personal lifestyle choices. Activities such as listening to music or playing an instrument may help support memory, mental stimulation, emotional wellbeing, and long-term cognitive health.

Overall, the study suggests that regular musical engagement may form part of a healthy lifestyle for older adults, although further research is needed to confirm whether music directly reduces the risk of dementia.

Summary: Daily Music Linked to Lower Dementia Risk [Study]

Regular music listening after age 70 was linked to a lower risk of dementia and cognitive impairment in a study of more than 10,800 older adults.Frequent listeners showed a 39 per cent lower dementia risk, while regular instrument players had a 35 per cent lower risk.People who both listened to and played music also achieved better outcomes in memory and overall cognitive health.Researchers suggest music may be an accessible lifestyle activity that supports healthy brain ageing.However, the study found an association and did not prove that music directly prevents dementia.