A recent study suggests that engaging in creative activities can significantly slow down brain aging. Activities such as dancing, playing music, engaging in visual arts, and strategizing in video games have been linked to a younger appearance of the brain compared to chronological age. Notably, these benefits extend even to beginners, making these brain-enhancing pursuits accessible to everyone. The aging process often affects the body before it impacts mental capabilities, and while the brain may suffer gradual changes, it may go unnoticed until significant memory or focus issues arise. Researchers have been investigating how lifestyle decisions influence this aging process and have discovered that creativity could play a crucial role. Published in Nature Communications, the study indicates that certain imaginative activities contribute to a brain that looks biologically younger. The findings emphasize that creativity is not confined to artists or highly talented individuals; anyone can gain advantages from incorporating a creative hobby into their lives. According to Agustín Ibáñez, director of the Latin American Brain Health Institute at Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, “This is not just a solution for the da Vincis of the world.” In times of stress and uncertainty, cultivating creativity in art or music can positively affect brain health. The investigation involved brain imaging data from 1,467 healthy participants, including tango dancers, musicians, visual artists, and strategy video game players. To assess brain aging rates, researchers utilized algorithms known as “brain clocks,” which compare biological brain age to chronological age. Typically, accelerated aging indicates that the brain appears older than the person. However, this study focused on identifying activities that correlate with delayed brain aging. Noteworthy, all four activities exhibited strong ties to younger-looking brains. Those with advanced skills or years of experience yielded even more significant results. Interestingly, novices demonstrated benefits as well. In one segment of the research, 24 individuals trained to play StarCraft II, a strategic video game, over 30 hours, while a control group engaged in Hearthstone, which follows rigid rules. The results showed that only the StarCraft II group experienced slower brain aging. Here are the key activities associated with delaying brain aging: 1. **Dancing:** Tango dancers showcased the most substantial results, appearing seven years younger on average. This is attributed to dance's ability to enhance motor skills, rhythm, coordination, and social connectivity. 2. **Playing Music:** Musicians not only benefit from learning new instruments but also from revisiting old ones. The blend of melody, timing, and emotional processing strengthens brain connections over time. 3. **Visual Art:** Engaging in painting, drawing, or visual creation activates cognitive pathways, promoting brain health regardless of artistic talent. 4. **Strategy Video Games:** Games requiring creative planning and problem-solving, such as StarCraft II, were found to slow brain aging, even with minimal practice time. 5. **Attending Performances and Exhibitions:** Passive involvement by attending concerts or art exhibitions was also linked to enhanced memory and reduced cognitive decline in older adults. These findings suggest that infusing creativity into everyday life can be a powerful strategy to maintain brain health and delay aging.
Unlocking Youthful Minds: The Impact of Creativity on Brain Aging
The Times of India •
Image source: The Times of India website
A new study highlights that engaging in creative activities like dancing, playing music, visual arts, and strategic video games may significantly delay brain aging. This research indicates that even beginners can benefit from these pursuits, making them accessible to a wide audience. By analyzing brain imaging data from over a thousand participants, the study found a strong connection between creativity and a biologically younger brain. Activities like dancing and strategy gaming were particularly effective. Overall, fostering creativity offers an enjoyable way to promote brain health and resilience.