Listening to Music Might Protect Your Brain

On The Rise: Research indicates that rates of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia disorders are increasing, with some projections predicting U.S. cases to double by 2060. To help lower your risk, experts often recommend cutting back on alcohol and processed foods, moving more, and staying socially connected. Now, new research from Monash University adds another simple habit to that list: listening to more music.

The Study: In a study of more than 10,800 adults over the age of 70, the scientists found that those who made listening to music a regular habit were significantly less likely to develop dementia — about 39% lower odds compared with peers who rarely or never listened. 

The Takeaway: The work explored how both passive music engagement and playing an instrument relate to brain health later in life. Their findings indicate that consistent music listeners had notably better protection against dementia, and those who actively played an instrument saw advantages, showing roughly a 35% lower risk.

Keep In Mind: This was an observational study, with self-reported information to boot, so no causation can be established. As the lead researcher put it, the outcomes suggest, but don’t prove, that listening to more music is an “accessible strategy for maintaining cognitive health in older adults.”

P.S. — If you’re looking for something new, we’ve been loving this album.