The Benefits of Playing an Instrument for Brain Health
A recent study has revealed that playing a musical instrument could offer significant benefits for brain health, especially as people age. According to the findings, the brain processes of older individuals who play instruments resemble those of younger people, suggesting that musical activity may help maintain cognitive function.
Two neurologists have provided insights into the study and its implications, emphasizing that it’s never too late to start learning an instrument. If you already incorporate whole foods, good sleep, and regular exercise into your lifestyle for longevity, consider adding music to your routine.
The research, published in the journal PLOS Biology, examined the brains of 74 participants using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The group included older musicians, older non-musicians, and younger non-musicians. Each participant was asked to identify syllables masked by background noise, simulating real-life situations where hearing is challenging.
The results showed that older musicians were better at processing speech in noisy environments compared to their non-musician counterparts. Their brain activity closely resembled that of younger non-musicians, indicating that musical training may enhance cognitive resilience.
Understanding the Link Between Music and Brain Health
While the exact reasons behind this connection are not fully understood, experts suggest that learning new skills—such as playing an instrument—can create strong neural connections in the brain. These connections contribute to what is known as “cognitive reserve,” which helps protect against age-related decline.
Dr. Amit Sachdev, medical director in the Department of Neurology at Michigan State University, explains that advanced education and learning new languages or skills can reduce the risk of memory loss. He notes that the process of learning to play an instrument involves multiple areas of the brain, including visual, auditory, and associative regions. This complex activity promotes brain resilience.
Dr. Clifford Segil, a neurologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, adds that creating music requires the coordination of various brain functions. From interpreting sheet music to managing rhythms and harmonies, these activities engage different parts of the brain simultaneously, strengthening neural pathways.
It’s Never Too Late to Start
One common question is whether it’s too late to begin playing an instrument. Both experts agree that it’s never too late. Dr. Segil emphasizes that the brain remains adaptable throughout life, and the ability to process music can be developed at any age. Whether you’re 13 or 73, engaging with music can provide cognitive benefits.
He also points out that you don’t need to be a professional musician to see these advantages. Even if you play out of tune, your brain still benefits from the activity. “Your brain won’t know if you’re carrying the tune well or badly and will still benefit from making music,” he says.
Additional Cognitive Benefits of Playing an Instrument
Beyond longevity, playing an instrument offers numerous other cognitive benefits. It enhances eye-hand coordination, eye-and-ear coordination, and higher-level processing when combining rhythms and melodies. This multi-tasking nature of music-making activates multiple brain regions, promoting overall brain health.
Reading music is similar to learning a second language, according to Dr. Segil. Both require unique brain pathways that differ from those used in reading one’s native language. This distinction can further support brain health.
However, Dr. Sachdev cautions against forcing oneself to learn an instrument if it doesn’t bring joy. “The most important thing to remember is that you want to pursue it to support your mental health and wellness,” he says. Engaging in hobbies with others can also be beneficial, as social interaction contributes to overall well-being.
In conclusion, playing an instrument is more than just a fun activity—it’s a powerful tool for maintaining and enhancing brain health. Whether you’re just starting out or returning to an old passion, the benefits of music are accessible to everyone.
