The effects of music-based interventions on cognitive function in cognitively normal older adults: a systematic...

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate whether music-based interventions (MBIs) can improve cognitive function in cognitively normal older adults.

We systematically searched multiple databases through March 2025. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Eligible interventions were structured programs with music as the core component. Participants were cognitively normal adults aged ≥60 years. Primary outcome measures included global cognition, memory, executive function, and attention. A random-effects model meta-analysis was conducted to synthesize effect sizes.

Nine RCTs (total N = 625 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Music-based interventions significantly improved global cognition [SMD = 0.31, 95% CI (0.11, 0.52)], memory [SMD = 0.36, 95% CI (0.04, 0.69)], and executive function [SMD = 0.43, 95% CI (0.11, 0.74)] compared to control groups. However, no significant improvement in attention was observed [SMD = -0.12, 95% CI (-0.34, 0.11)].

Music-based interventions have positive effects on global cognition, executive function, and memory in cognitively normal older adults, but there is no evidence of improvement in attention. Larger sample sizes and higher-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings.