Music — whether humming a tune, singing a song, listening to the radio or playing in a band — can make us feel good. But a melody can do much more than put a smile on your face. Research has found that music can improve brain function and mental well-being, especially in older adults.
Not musically inclined? Don’t worry. Research shows that learning to play an instrument, singing or simply listening to music enhances brain health.
The benefits of music are so powerful that many hospitals and care facilities include music therapy programs. These programs feature specially trained music therapists who help patients engage with music in ways that address their health needs.
The science behind how music affects cognitive function
When you listen to music, you use several areas of your brain. As these different regions activate, your brain forms connections that help it to function at its best.
Music therapists use these effects to manage a variety of conditions. From memory loss and dementia to depression and balance problems, music therapy has a place in many different treatment plans.
Research shows that music:
Improves memory
Have you ever heard a song that “takes you back” to a different time? Maybe the music makes you laugh as you recall a fun night of dancing. Or you might shed a tear if the song brings back a difficult event. That emotional response is like exercise for your brain’s memory abilities.
According to research, these effects on memory can help people with a loss of cognitive function. A recent study found that a structured music therapy program can improve memory in older adults with dementia. A review of several other studies backed up these findings with similar results. According to the research, playing familiar music helped people with Alzheimer’s disease recall life events and connect with others.
Playing an instrument has memory-boosting power, too. Research has shown that 10 weeks of musical instrument training improves verbal memory in older adults. In another study, 16 weeks of piano lessons improved working memory and thinking speed in people ages 60 to 80. A review also found that older adults who played an instrument had a decreased risk of developing dementia.
Manages depression and loneliness
About 14% of adults older than 60 have a mental health condition, and depression is one of the most common issues. Music alone isn’t a treatment for depression, but research suggests it can help in combination with other therapies.
Music therapy can help reduce symptoms of depression in older adults. This same research also suggests that simply listening to your preferred music helps manage depression, too. Another study found that older adults who participated in a group singing program had decreased depression and less feelings of loneliness.
Enhances motor skills
Our bodies are designed to feel rhythms. We can see this in infants who wiggle to a drumbeat before they can walk. This natural inclination may help older adults who have a decline in motor (movement) skills.
Dancing to any music has been shown to reduce the risk of falling for older adults and improve balance and mobility. Research also shows that using your hands to play an instrument can improve fine motor skills.
How to add music to your life
You can enjoy many of music’s benefits with everyday activities such as:
- Mindful listening: Music can be part of meditation, which reduces stress, anxiety and depression. Turn on some calming music and focus on the sounds, notes and beats.
- Singing: You can sing at home, in your car, when gardening and during other activities. Consider joining a community choir, which has the added benefit of social connections.
- Dancing: Whether you take a class or just dance in your living room, you get cardio exercise when you dance. And moving to a beat can help boost your brain at the same time.
- Playing an instrument: Learning to play an instrument gives you a new hobby and challenge, and you’re never too old to do it. Consider taking in-person or online lessons or look into group music training programs in your area.
Music is good medicine
If you or a loved one is receiving care for a health condition, ask your health care provider if music therapy might help.
If you don’t have access to a music therapist, you can still add music to your daily life. Even just listening to your favorite songs can give your brain a healthy boost.
