When you think about ways to avoid Alzheimer’s, music can be one of the first things that may come to mind. New research suggests that a love of music - whether you listen, play, or both - could help keep your brain healthy and potentially lower your risk of dementia as you age.
A major new study published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry followed more than 10,000 Australians aged 70 and older, all without dementia when the study began. Over several years, researchers tracked their music habits and their cognitive health. The results were surprising:
Those who said they “always” (vs. “never,” “rarely” or “sometimes”) listened to music had about a 39% lower risk of developing dementia.
Participants who regularly played a musical instrument saw about a 35% lower risk.
Those both listened and played had about a 33% lower risk of dementia and a 22% lower risk of milder cognitive decline.
The takeway? The more often people engaged with music, the better their odds of keeping their minds sharp and intact.
Researchers were careful to note that their findings don’t prove causation – it’s possible that people with healthier brains simply tend to enjoy music more. Still, the connection was strong enough to merit attention.
“With no cure currently available for dementia, the importance of identifying strategies to help prevent or delay onset of the disease is critical,” said study senior author Professor Joanne Ryan of Monash University in Australia. “Evidence suggests that brain ageing is not just based on age and genetics but can be influenced by one’s own environmental and lifestyle choices.”
Why music might help
Listening to or playing music engages nearly every part of the brain including the regions involved in hearing, movement, emotion, and memory. This multi-level engagement builds “cognitive reserve,” meaning the brain develops new neural pathways and flexibility to help it cope with aging and disease.
Most of us experience this process in action whenever a familiar song instantly calls up a memory. Music strengthens the same networks that help us recall past events, get in touch with our feelings, and focus our thoughts.
Playing an instrument is even more effective. It’s a full-brain workout that combines motor coordination, pattern recognition, and emotional engagement. Even if you haven’t played in years, picking up an old instrument or learning a new song might be one of the most powerful ways to support brain health.
Music joins a growing list of protective lifestyles and habits
This study adds to a long line of research showing that lifestyle choices are major contributors to brain health. Just as regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain, or a Mediterranean-style diet fights inflammation, musical engagement seems to offer its own protective boost.
The takeaway is heartening: It’s never tnot too late to make a difference. Even into your 70s the brain remains adaptable, and small, enjoyable habits can build real resilience over time.
How to make music part of your brain health plan
You don’t have to become a musician to benefit from the positive effects of music. Try starting with one or two of these ideas:
Make music a daily habit. Turn on your favorite playlist while cooking, driving, or relaxing before bed.
Pick up an instrument. Even ten minutes a day of guitar, piano, or flute practice can jolt dormant circuits awake.
Join a group. Community choirs and drumming circles combine the benefits of music and social connection - a double benefit for the brain.
Sing along. Singing activates memory and language networks and improves your mood.
Choose music that means something to you. Emotional connection strengthens the neurological effects of music.
Most importantly, make it enjoyable. The goal isn’t to perform - it’s to engage.
At PatientsForACure.org, we’ve often highlighted how exercise, good nutrition, sleep, and social connection all build brain resilience. Now we know that music fits into that same picture, bringing joy, connection, and stimulation all at once.
So put on some music that moves you, your brain will thank you later.