Researchers say that playing an instrument or listening to music, in addition to being an artistic interest, can enhance brain function.

According to Techna’s technology news service, scientists in their recent studies are exploring ways to prevent or delay dementia in individuals, aiming to reduce the number of people affected by this condition worldwide. Researchers at the University of Exeter in the UK monitored 1,107 individuals over the age of 40, gathering data about them. In this study, the cognitive abilities of individuals were collected and analyzed in relation to their self-reported musical skills. The collected data were subjected to analysis, and the results reveal that the working memory and executive functioning of a group of participants with the ability to play a musical instrument are significantly better than those of others. Furthermore, the data examined relationships between singing, overall musical ability, and individuals’ working memory.

Anne Corbett, a psychologist at the University of Exeter, states about this study: “Numerous studies have previously addressed the impact of music on brain health. In general, individuals who are musically inclined are better able to exercise cognitive flexibility, which is referred to as cognitive reserve.”

Based on this concept, individuals with greater cognitive reserve are believed to be less susceptible to dementia. Despite the evidence indicating a strong correlation in this study, the analysis does not prove a causal relationship, as other factors may also be involved. For example, individuals with higher incomes not only have access to music education but also enjoy a higher quality diet. This diet could potentially improve brain function even more than music. Engaging in playing instruments and practicing them can be very effective for the brain, a possibility that has also been supported in previous studies