Khaberni - Researchers from Monash University in Malaysia have discovered a simple method that helps combat cognitive decline in the elderly.
The journal (IJGP) indicated that the study conducted by the scientists showed that regular listening to music in old age can combat dementia and significantly slow the pace of cognitive decline.
During the study, scientists analyzed data from over 10,800 individuals aged over 70, studying their health status, cognitive abilities, and daily habits such as listening to music; the results showed that individuals who regularly listened to music had a 39% lower risk of developing dementia, and rates of cognitive decline decreased by 17%. Moreover, playing musical instruments also had a clear impact on mental health, leading to a 35% reduced risk of developing dementia. People who combined listening to music with playing musical instruments achieved the best results, with a 33% reduction in risks.
The researchers noted that the causal relationship between listening to music and mental health has not yet been conclusively proven, but they confirmed that music could be an easy and accessible strategy to support brain health in old age. This is important given the increasing rates of aging worldwide and the rising numbers of people affected by age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
In light of the lack of effective treatments for dementia to date, the researchers called for attention to non-pharmacological methods of maintaining cognitive health, such as listening to music, mental activity, social connections, and regular physical activity.
