Music is a wonderful gift. Listening to music, playing music, or making music together…it all enhances our emotional, cognitive, & relational health. In fact, a recent longitudinal study of over 10,800 participants suggests that music actually decreases the risk of dementia. Specifically, those over 70-years-old who “always listen” to music showed a 39% decrease in the risk of dementia when compared to those who never, rarely, or sometimes listen to music. They also showed a 17% lower incidence of cognitive impairment and higher scores in overall cognition and the recall of everyday events.

Interestingly, those who listened to music and played music exhibited a 33% decreased risk in dementia and a 22% decreased risk of cognitive impairment.

Naturally, music alone cannot guarantee results; it will work best when combined with a healthy diet, sufficient rest, and regular exercise for best effect. However, listening to music and maybe even playing music (whether instrumental or vocal) can be part of an overall healthy lifestyle that decreases the risk of dementia.

I don’t know about you, but I find this fascinating for a couple of reasons.

1. I want to live well into late adulthood with as much cognitive ability as possible. I want to be alert and aware so I can engage my grandchildren as they grow. I want to talk with them about their friends and activities. I want to encourage them and support them. And I’ll do that best with a clear mind and good cognitive health. Listening to music can help us reach that goal.
2. I love music. I like to listen to music and make music. This research supports my desire (AKA, gives me an excuse) to continue enjoying music well into late adulthood. Is there anything better than putting on some good music while cleaning the house, socializing with friends, or simply relaxing on the porch? We can turn up the tunes and add enjoyment to everyday life…and live longer, healthier lives.
3. Music also provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with family and friends. I can enjoy the music of my youth, my children’s youth, and my grandchildren’s youth. I can sit back and listen to the music with my family, connecting with each generation over the music they love, while nurturing cognitive health.

Music improves cognitive health. Music makes life’s moments even more enjoyable. Music brings us together with friends and family. Music provides a point of connection and relationship with family. What could be better? Turn up the tunes and enjoy.