Scientists have learned about reducing the risk of dementia by listening to music daily

A team of scientists from Monash University has found that regular music listening in people over the age of 70 is associated with a significant reduction in the risk of dementia. This was reported on November 17 by Science Daily magazine.

According to a study conducted by student Emma Jaffa and Professor Joan Ryan, people who regularly listened to music had a 39% lower risk of developing dementia compared to those who rarely did so. Playing musical instruments also showed a positive effect — the risk of dementia decreased by 35%.

More than 10.8 thousand elderly people participated in the study. The participants who often listened to music had better memory and cognitive functions, and they were 17% less likely to experience cognitive impairments. The combination of listening and playing instruments, in turn, reduced the risk of dementia by 33%, and cognitive impairment by 22%.

"[The findings] suggest that music lessons may be available strategies for maintaining the cognitive health of older adults, although a causal relationship cannot be established," Jaffa noted.

The power of shock: promising dementia drug has been tested on animals

What have the studies of the innovative drug shown in transgenic mice?

Professor Ryan, in turn, stressed the need to quickly explore options that can delay or prevent the onset of dementia.

"The evidence suggests that brain aging is not only caused by age and genetics, but may also depend on a person's environment and lifestyle. Our study shows that lifestyle-based interventions, such as listening to or playing music, can promote cognitive health," she added.

On October 24, vocal teacher, author of the phonopedic method of voice development and Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences Viktor Yemelyanov told Izvestia about the impact of singing on mental health. The specialist clarified that the voice function is initially protective and emotional in nature. According to him, singing can reduce anxiety, help with insomnia and stabilize breathing.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.