25 Aug Why is Music Good for the Brain?
ABSTRACT: This blog posting summarizes an AARP study looking at the impact of music on emotional well-being and cognition. Some results certainly suggest that music can affect many different areas, inlcding one’s overall happiness in life:
Music listeners had higher scores for mental well-being and slightly reduced levels of anxiety and depression compared to people overall.
Of survey respondents who currently go to musical performances, 69% rated their brain health as “excellent” or “very good,” compared to 58% for those who went in the past and 52% for those who never attended.
Of those who reported often being exposed to music as a child, 68% rated their ability to learn new things as “excellent” or “very good,” compared to 50% of those who were not exposed to music.
Active musical engagement, including those over age 50, was associated with higher rates of happiness and good cognitive function.
Adults with no early music exposure but who currently engage in some music appreciation show above average mental well-being scores.
AUTHOR SUMMARY: Dr. Andrew E. Budson
READ MORE: Why is music good for the brain? – Harvard Health
Related posts:
A Review of the Literature on the Relationship of Music Education to the Development of Socio-Emotional Learning
Anti-Oppressive Music Therapy: Updates and Future Considerations
Art and Music Therapy Seem to Help with Brain Disorders. Scientists Want to Know Why.
Association of Logic’s Hip Hop song “1-800-273-8255” with Lifeline Calls and Suicides in the United States
