Striking the Right Chords | The Impact of Music on Our Minds

by William Aura

As a fellow boomer navigating the journey of aging, the idea of cognitive reserve has moved beyond fascinating – it's become vital. A recent University of Exeter study has beautifully unraveled the connection between playing a musical instrument and fortifying cognitive resilience.

Let me share this harmonious revelation with you. In a deep dive into the lives of 1,107 individuals aged 40 and above, the study sheds light on the transformative power of musical engagement on cognitive function. Aligning perfectly with the concept of cognitive reserve, it unveils that actively playing an instrument elevates cognitive performance.

Cognitive reserve, a term gaining prominence in neuroscience, refers to the brain's ability to maintain cognitive function despite aging or damage. The study implies that the magic lies not just in listening to music but in the act of creating it through playing an instrument.

Anne Corbett, Professor of Dementia Research at the University of Exeter, opens a window into the study's discoveries. She suggests that embracing musicality might be the very key to unlocking our brain's agility and resilience. There's a compelling case for promoting musical education as part of public health initiatives, especially for the well-being of older adults. And it's not a solo journey – singing also shows potential links to enhanced brain health, possibly influenced by the social bonds formed in group participation.

This fascinating journey began with Gaia Vetere, a University of Exeter Medicine student and an avid pianist. Her curiosity about the interplay between music and cognition ignited this enriching exploration. The study echoes the sentiments of individuals like Stuart Douglas, a 78-year-old accordion player, underscoring the role of music in maintaining cognitive health. Stuart's lifelong connection with the accordion serves as a testament to the enduring companionship music offers to a flourishing mind.

Yet, it's not merely about acing a cognitive test - it's about navigating life with clarity and resilience. In a world grappling with unprecedented challenges, building cognitive reserve takes center stage. It's not just about staving off cognitive decline - it's about sculpting a resilient mind that can withstand the complexities of modern existence.

So, as we venture into the next phase of life, let's embrace the rhythms, melodies, and harmonies that come with playing a musical instrument. Beyond the sheer joy of creation, we might just be investing in the cognitive reserve that will accompany us throughout the beautiful journey of aging – unlocking the mind's potential for years to come.