Recent studies suggest that the cognitive functions of musicians degrade more slowly over time, thus maintaining their level of intelligence as they age. This could provide an explanation for the mental agility of artists, such as Keith Richards, who remains equally energetic even at the age of 80.

The Rolling Stones guitar maestro, known for his riffs, demonstrates remarkable wisdom and spiritual depth despite the tumultuous life he has led, indulging in alcohol and drugs. Researchers believe that his musical talent could play a significant role in this cognitive resilience.

The hobby that can keep the brain young

Experts at the University of Exeter have identified that individuals who engage in playing musical instruments exhibit superior cognitive abilities and have a stronger memory in later stages of life compared to those who do not engage in musical activities, as reported by TheSun.ro.

It is presumed that exercising the brain through musical practice stimulates nerve growth and improves blood circulation, while lack of stimulation through new and challenging tasks may lead to the weakening of these capacities over time.

In a study conducted on a sample of 1,570 adults over the age of 40, it was found that people who played a musical instrument showed significantly better performance in areas of memory, reasoning and processing speed compared to non-musicians.

It is important to mention that merely listening to music did not have the same impact on cognitive abilities.

Participants who played the piano recorded the most significant benefit, but all those who played instruments scored higher compared to those with no musical experience.

Professor Anne Corbett, the study's author, explained: "We believe that involvement in music could represent an effective way to stimulate brain flexibility and resilience, known as cognitive reserve. Our results suggest that promoting music education could be beneficial for public health. Similarly, encouraging older adults to return to music later in life could bring significant benefits".

This could offer them the opportunity to actively reduce their risk of dementia and promote brain health. Previous studies have shown that playing a musical instrument increases children's IQ and improves their reading and concentration skills.

Additionally, adults who regularly sing or have sung music usually perform better on language and processing speed tests.

In an article published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, Professor Corbett suggested that the "cognitive demands" of musical practice are beneficial for brain health.

Furthermore, playing in an orchestra or choir contributes to socialization, which can help reduce the risk of dementia.

According to the latest figures provided by the Ministry of Health on this subject, 300,000 Romanians live with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, well above the European average, and the diagnosis rate is only 10-15%. Worldwide, there are over 50 million patients suffering from dementia, most in the form of Alzheimer’s disease.

Dementia is a condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, which may occur at different stages of a person's life, although they are more common as the person ages. The main symptoms of dementia are:

Memory loss: The person may have difficulty remembering recent events, names of people or important places.

Difficulty in thinking and concentration: Difficulties may arise in performing everyday tasks, such as problem-solving or decision-making.

Confusion: The person may become disoriented in space and time or may have difficulty recognizing familiar people or objects.

Language disorders: Difficulties may arise in expressing ideas or understanding spoken language.

Difficulty in performing daily activities: The person may have difficulty performing ordinary tasks, such as dressing or cooking.

Changes in mood and behavior: Sudden changes in mood, unusual anxiety or agitation may occur.