Playing a musical instrument or singing in a choir is linked to better memory and thinking skills in older age, new research has found.
The piano specifically has been associated with better brain function in those over 40, researchers from Exeter University has found. The study reviewed data from more than 1000 adults, looking at a range of people with different experiences of music.
The scientists investigated the brain health and executive functions of those involved, testing mental processes involved in planning, focusing, remembering and juggling tasks. They found that those who played an instrument scored more highly, particularly those who played the piano.
‘OVerall, we think that being musical could be a way of harnessing the brain’s agility and resilience, known as cognitive reserve,’ says Anne Corbett, professor of dementia research at the University of Exeter. ‘Athough more research is needed to investigate this relationship, our findings indicate that promoting musical education would be a valuable part of public health initiatives to promote a protective lifestyle for brain health, as would encouraging older adults to return to music in later life.’
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