Growing older, aging, is a fact of life, so doing it in the best possible way becomes the best path to follow. Now, a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) confirms that singing in a choir combines cognitive, emotional, and physical stimulation, which, according to research, can improve memory, mood, and strengthen breathing. Not only that, but also music in general.
Experts say that playing an instrument can be as powerful as a drug in protecting the brain from aging
Music is healthy, experts say. And it probably is. Remembering song lyrics, sounds, melodies, voices… can even be rejuvenating when we talk about very old age, when memory (and the lack thereof) becomes an obstacle. And not just any music; experts say that playing an instrument can be as powerful as a drug in protecting the brain from aging. Music in general can be a powerful activity for those over 65, promoting brain health and better social and physical well-being.
A study showed that older adults who practice music retain better short- and long-term memory
Regarding music expressed through choral singing, studies show that it integrates language, memory, coordination, and emotional expression, all while integrating into a group. A study by the National Institute for Health and Care Research showed that older adults who practice music retain better short- and long-term memory, even if they start late. Furthermore, it is one of the most accessible musical activities, and community choirs are increasingly popular among older adults around the world.
Creating these safe environments where they can rely on each other has become essential
It’s worth noting that this ability not only helps memory, but also helps us relate to other people, something that has proven to be essential as we get older. Let’s remember that not everyone has a supportive environment; not everyone has family, children, siblings, etc. Therefore, creating these safe environments where they can rely on each other has become essential when it comes to supporting older adults.
“When you play music, your brain lights up like a Christmas tree”
Unlike solo activities, singing in a group requires listening, adapting, and connecting with others, which strengthens cognitive flexibility and social bonds. Just like playing musical instruments. “When you play music, your brain lights up like a Christmas tree. You coordinate your hands, ears, and memory in an exercise that’s unparalleled,” says Jonathan Burdette, a neuroradiologist at Wake Forest University. Reading sheet music, listening to tones, and moving your fingers simultaneously stimulates the frontal (memory) and parietal (coordination) lobes. Research published in BMC Neurology (2022) revealed that musicians over 65 have a 36% lower risk of developing dementia.
Music releases dopamine, the happiness hormone
The benefits of practicing music, whether singing or playing, go beyond those mentioned above. Singing activates brain networks that connect the auditory, motor, and linguistic systems, keeping these pathways active and resilient against age-related decline. Let’s not forget that it also helps our mood. Music releases dopamine, the “happiness hormone.” Furthermore, studies link musical practice with lower blood pressure. In other studies comparing older choir singers to non-singers, those in choirs scored higher on tests of verbal fluency and showed greater ease with language-related tasks.
In short, singing regularly can help older adults stay mentally sharp, physically healthier, and emotionally connected. This is beneficial at these ages, but also at younger ages. The adjectives we mentioned are emotions that many people want to feel in order to feel at peace with themselves. Therefore, starting earlier can also be a good idea in order to live a life that fulfills us as individuals.
