Issue #69 ·
Playing Music and Cognitive Health in Older Adults
🎶 The health benefits of musicality, Having grounded hobbies, Owning dogs and Taking risks
Hello friends,
When I was younger, I played the guitar and piano.
I’m sure it’s still in there.
But I haven’t played an instrument in a while.
For extra motivation, today’s article shares fascinating research that sheds light on the power of music to support cognitive health as we age.
This week in building health 👇
How Music Engagement Boosts Cognitive Function
I found a study about the relationship between musicality and cognitive function in older adults, and I couldn't wait to share it with you.
The researchers used the PROTECT-UK cohort and the Edinburgh Lifetime Musical Experience Questionnaire (ELMEQ) to measure the participants' musical experience.
They performed linear regression analysis using cognitive data to uncover associations between musical engagement and cognitive function.
Key Findings: Music and Cognitive Performance
The study found significant links between musical engagement and cognitive function:
Playing a musical instrument is linked to better working memory and executive function.
Singing is linked to better executive function.
Overall musical ability is correlated with improved working memory.
Musical instruments and ongoing musical activity were linked to better cognitive performance in older age.
Why Having Hobbies is Good For You
These findings support previous research on the potential value of lifelong music education and engagement for cognitive reserve and brain health.
Activities like music, dancing, reading, learning new skills, and socializing can help keep our minds sharp and protect against cognitive decline as we age.
Engaging in hobbies and mentally stimulating activities throughout our lives helps build cognitive reserve, acting as a buffer against age-related brain changes.
This study adds to evidence suggesting that having a mix of hobbies can improve cognitive function as we age.
Implications and Future Directions
Promoting music engagement as part of healthy aging supports cognitive health in older adults.
The study has limitations and leaves room for future research to explore these associations, but the findings represent a step towards understanding the power of music in maintaining cognitive health as we age.
My favorite health things for the week
// one
The Mental Health Benefits of Doing Real Things
11 minutes | Steph Jagger
This article explores how activities like weightlifting, hiking, and woodworking can teach humility and keep us grounded on the topic of mixing hobbies.
What strikes me about this piece is its unique perspective on how physical activities can counter egotistical behavior from people in power.
This is a must-read if you want to stay grounded and mentally resilient.
// two
Dog Ownership Linked To 24% Lower Risk Of Dying Early
5 minutes
This research analyzed data from nearly 4 million people across six countries over 70 years. It was published in "Circulation," a journal of the American Heart Association.
Dog ownership has the most protective effect on people who live alone. This suggests that the companionship and increased physical activity from owning a dog may be especially beneficial for this group.
// three
Why Children Need Risk, Fear, and Excitement in Play
9 minutes | Mariana Burssoni
As a parent, I struggle with balancing my protective instincts with letting my baby daughter take risks.
The benefits of risk, fear, and excitement in play are important, and these elements are disappearing from modern childhood.
Overprotecting kids hinders their development and prevents them from learning to navigate challenges independently.
Encouraging supervised risky play, like climbing trees or exploring nature, can foster adventure and self-confidence that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Until next time
Don’t forget to play, take risks, and challenge your mind this weekend.
Thank you for reading.
Have a Healthy Weekend