The Cognitive Benefits of Playing Instruments

Who knew instruments would be this useful.

A recent study conducted by the University of Exeter reveals a positive association between engaging in musical activities throughout adulthood and enhanced cognitive health during the aging process. The research, part of the larger PROTECT study focused on individuals aged 40 and above, analyzed data in collaboration with King’s College London over a decade. The study specifically explored the cognitive effects of lifelong exposure to music, examining a subset of the PROTECT study.

The findings indicate that adults who play musical instruments exhibit a more robust working memory and executive function. Similarly, participating in choral singing is correlated with improved executive function. Overall musical ability is linked to a stronger working memory. Notably, the study underscores the additional cognitive benefits derived from active participation in music, engaging multiple areas of the brain. In contrast, passive music listening did not show a significant link to cognitive health.

Individuals who continued playing musical instruments as they aged experienced more pronounced cognitive health benefits. The study highlighted the piano as the instrument most significantly associated with improved cognitive health, followed by woodwind and brass instruments. However, no significant association was identified between cognition and playing percussion, bowed instruments, or guitar. Most participants in the study had limited engagement in musical activities, typically for five years or less, emphasizing the potential value of ongoing musical education throughout adulthood.

These positive findings stress the importance of musical engagement as a protective measure for cognitive reserves during aging. As many school music programs face elimination, the study suggests that promoting musical activities throughout adulthood could contribute to maintaining cognitive health. The study also calls for further research to understand the specific cognitive outcomes associated with various types of musical engagement. Overall, the research supports the inclusion of music therapy in memory care, with physiological mechanisms explained by Dr. Larry Sherman, a professor at the Oregon Health & Science Institute.