Music is one of the great pleasures of life. In fact, it’s so fundamental to our well-being that it appears in every culture around the world and far predates written history. Scholars estimate that humans have been making music for around 35,000 years!

So what is it about music that captivates us? Well, it turns out we get some very real benefits from listening to and participating in music. Here are five benefits of music for seniors. 

1. Playing an Instrument is Good for Your Brain

Researchers know that playing music as a child helps strengthen your neural connections. And in fact, seniors who played a musical instrument for at least 10 years when they were younger score higher on cognitive tests than those who did not have this musical experience. But don’t worry, you’ll still benefit from music even if you don’t have a musical background. For example, in one study, seniors who had never played an instrument and took three months of piano lessons showed increased processing speed and memory compared to a group of seniors who did not take the lessons. 

2. Music Helps Your Memory

Music has been found to help keep memory sharp, and studies have shown that music even helps people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia connect with their memories. You probably have songs you associate with different times of your life. Maybe you remember songs that were popular when you were in high school, the first song you danced to at your wedding, or favorite hymns from church. Hearing music we associate with specific periods of time helps bring memories from those times back to us. 

3. Music Boosts Your Mood

You’ve probably noticed that you feel happier when you listen to music you like. Music is enjoyable and can even boost your mood if you’re feeling down. In fact, studies have shown that playing and participating in music helps relieve anxiety and depression. It also helps you relax, lower your heart rate and blood pressure, and regulate your breathing. So next time you’re feeling stressed or down, put on your favorite music. There’s a good chance you’ll feel happier in no time!

4. Music Keeps Your Hearing Sharp

Hearing loss is common as we age. But interestingly, seniors who play musical instruments don’t experience hearing loss due to changes in the auditory cortex as frequently as those who aren’t musicians. And since musicians have to listen carefully to make sure they are playing the correct notes, it helps keep your hearing sharp. That’s a great reason to give an instrument a try! 

5. Music Helps Us Communicate and Connect

Across cultures and over millennia, humans have used music to communicate and connect. It can be an outlet for self-expression and creativity. Or it can be a channel to connect and communicate with others, as in a band or choir. Whether you sing songs around a campfire or chant as part of a sports event, you’re probably aware of the feelings of camaraderie and connection music brings. Additionally, musical therapy can even help patients who are non-verbal communicate. For example, Alzheimer’s patients can communicate with their loved ones through repetitive drum rhythms. 

The desire to connect and express ourselves through music is a core human trait. So embrace it! Music can help you feel better, manage your stress, and keep your mind and ears sharp. So make time to play your favorite songs and consider joining a choir or learning to play an instrument. You’ll reap the benefits for years to come!