The Science Behind Why Music Keeps the Brain Young

In last week’s blog, Ride to the Rhythm, I shared how a weekend of movement, laughter and music with old friends renewed my energy and sense of connection. Since then, I’ve come across research that beautifully confirms what many of us have long felt — that music doesn’t just lift our mood; it helps keep our brains young. 

🧠 Music and Memory Go Hand in Hand 

A recent study from Monash University followed more than 10,000 adults over the age of 70 and discovered something remarkable: 

• Those who always listened to music had a 39% lower risk of dementia. 

• Those who played an instrument had a 35% lower risk. 

• And those who did both showed stronger memory, sharper focus and greater emotional wellbeing. 

• 
  

Researchers believe this is because music activates several parts of the brain at once — memory, movement, attention and emotion — providing a full workout for the mind. In a world where there’s still no cure for dementia, these findings suggest that something as simple as listening to or playing music could help maintain cognitive health and quality of life. 

🌿 Growing Wiser, Not Slower 

And the good news doesn’t stop there. New neuroscience research shows that our brains don’t simply slow down with age — they evolve. Between 55 and 60, many people reach what scientists now call a “late-life cognitive bloom”, where intelligence, reasoning and emotional balance often peak. 

Our minds aren’t fading; they’re refining. Every song we’ve sung, every story we’ve shared and every challenge we’ve faced have strengthened our neural connections and deepened our wisdom. 

🎵 Why This Matters for Us 

These findings echo what I see in every Music as Medicine session: music reconnects us to our bodies, our memories and to one another. It creates movement where there was stillness, clarity where there was noise and joy where there was fatigue. 

Ageing, then, isn’t about slowing down; it’s about finding your rhythm again. 

When we combine music, movement and meaningful connection, we’re not only creating harmony, we’re nurturing our minds, our relationships and our sense of purpose. 

💛 Experience It for Yourself 

If you’d love to explore how music can nurture your mind and spirit, join me for the 2026 Music as Medicine sessions on the Sunshine Coast. 

These guided experiences are designed to help you reconnect — through rhythm, reflection and shared song — in a space that celebrates growth and joy at every age. 

➡️ Expressions of interest are now open. 

To find out more or join my newsletter for updates, contact 0490 957 265 or petra@threequartertime.com.au, or visit www.threequartertime.com.au. 

🔑 Key Takeaway 

Music is more than background noise, it’s one of the most natural and joyful ways to keep our minds active, our hearts open and our lives in tune. 

References 

• Jaffa, E., & Ryan, J. (2024). What is the association between music-related leisure activities and dementia risk? A cohort study. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. Monash University. DOI: 10.1002/gps.70163 

• Monash University (2024). Listening to Music After 70 May Cut Dementia Risk by Nearly 40%. Research summary. 

• Neuroscience article on late-life cognitive bloom — explores how intelligence, reasoning and emotional balance can peak between ages 55–60, based on recent brain imaging studies.