
She reported that engaging in music helps protect the brain from deterioration and improves cognitive abilities in elderly individuals experiencing age-related changes. Elisaveta Zlatova drew attention to a recent study conducted by foreign scientists and published in the journal Neuroimage: Reports. She said that the results of the experiments showed that engaging in music contributes to an increase in gray matter volume in the brain.
Such an increase in gray matter, in turn, enhances memory and has a positive impact on cognitive processes. Zlatova noted that learning to play a musical instrument can even prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease. She recommended that elderly people engage in music independently four to five times a week for 30 minutes each time, and also have one session under the guidance of a teacher. This was the intensity of practice maintained by the participants in the experiment, and their MRI results showed good outcomes.
Zlatova also added that the effectiveness of brain function depends on other factors such as low stress levels, physical activity, proper nutrition, and a rich social life.