Doing this after age 70 can slash your dementia risk by 39%

One everyday activity is practically pitch perfect when it comes to delaying dementia.

US cases are predicted to double by 2060, with about half of Americans expected to experience cognitive decline after age 55.

There are plenty of ways to lower your risk, including by addressing modifiable risk factors like smoking and hearing loss — but a new study out this month adds to a growing body of research showing a fun, enjoyable habit can help your brain, too.

The study, published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, looked at more than 10,800 people over the age of 70.

They found that those who always listened to music had a 39% lower the risk of dementia compared to those who sometimes, rarely or never listened to music.

Researchers also saw a 17% lower incidence of cognitive decline, such as memory reasoning and problem-solving, as well as higher scores in recalling everyday events.

This evidence suggests that engaging with music could help maintain brain health in later life.

But listening to music wasn’t the only habit the Monash University-led study found to help with aging. Another way to reduce the risk of dementia? Picking up a guitar — or any musical instrument, for that matter.

Those who regularly played saw a 35% decline in dementia risk.

For the highest impact, both listening to music and playing an instrument was linked to a 33% decreased possibility of dementia and a 22% reduction in cognitive impairment.

Previous research has not only linked music to better brain aging, but suggested that putting on your favorite tunes could slow down dementia symptoms.

One study published in the journal Alzheimer Disease and Associated Disorders saw improved nonverbal communication in dementia patients.

And it turns out listening to music throughout your entire life can lead to improved memory and better overall brain health as people age.

Research from the University of Exeter found that engaging with music in different ways could have different benefits all related to better brain health in aging — similar findings to the study from Monash University.

While there’s no current cure for dementia, several studies suggest that lifestyle choices like listening to music or playing an instrument can help reduce the risk.

Other everyday habits — like healthy eating, less alcohol and physical exercise — may help your odds as well.