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Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
The relation between instrumental musical activity and cognitive aging.
Brenda Hanna-Pladdy1, Alicia MacKay
1Landon Center on Aging, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas, USA. bhannap@emory.edu
Neuropsychology
|April 6, 2011
Summary
Lifelong musical engagement, particularly over 10 years, is linked to better cognitive aging. High musical activity in older adults supports preserved memory and executive functions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Intensive musical practice is known to cause brain changes.
- The transfer of musical skills to nonmusical cognitive abilities in aging is not well understood.
- Identifying lifestyle factors for successful aging is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between lifelong musical instrumental participation and cognitive aging.
- To explore potential modifiable lifestyle factors for enhancing cognitive health in older adults.
Main Methods:
- A neuropsychological battery was administered to 70 healthy older adults (60-83 years).
- Participants were categorized into nonmusicians, low-activity musicians (1-9 years), and high-activity musicians (>10 years).
- Groups were matched on age, education, and exercise; musicians were also matched on training specifics.
Main Results:
- High-activity musicians (>10 years) demonstrated superior performance in nonverbal memory, naming, and executive functions compared to nonmusicians.
- Regression analyses explored predictors of cognitive performance, including years of musical activity and age of acquisition.
Conclusions:
- Significant lifelong musical activity appears to be a strong predictor of preserved cognitive functioning in advanced age.
- Musical participation may positively influence cognitive aging, though alternative explanations are considered.
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