Listening to music daily linked to 39% lower dementia risk, study finds

New research suggests that regularly listening to music could play a significant role in protecting brain health later in life. A major study involving 10,893 adults aged 70 and older found that people who listened to music most days had a 39% lower risk of developing dementia compared with those who rarely listened.

The research followed participants for nearly a decade as part of the ASPREE Longitudinal Study of Older Persons, which examines how lifestyle habits influence aging and disease risk. Throughout the study, researchers conducted annual health assessments and cognitive tests to track changes in memory and overall brain function.

Participants who reported listening to music frequently consistently performed better on memory tasks and broader cognitive tests, suggesting that music engagement may help maintain mental sharpness over time.

Scientists believe music activates multiple regions of the brain simultaneously, including areas responsible for emotion, movement, sensory processing and imagination. This widespread stimulation may help strengthen neural connections and improve communication between brain networks.

Other research has shown similar benefits. Studies indicate that playing a musical instrument may reduce dementia risk by around 35%, while brain scans from controlled trials have revealed increased connectivity in Alzheimer’s patients after listening to familiar music.

Researchers stress that these findings show association rather than direct causation, meaning music itself may not be the sole factor responsible for the reduced risk. However, the growing body of evidence highlights music as a potentially powerful tool for supporting cognitive health.

Beyond scientific findings, experts note that music also boosts mood, triggers memories and encourages emotional engagement, making it a simple yet meaningful activity that may benefit the brain throughout life.