There is some scientific evidence that playing a musical instrument — like piano — is associated with a lower risk of dementia or cognitive impairment in older adults. But it’s not a guarantee, and research has caveats. Here’s a breakdown of what we do and don’t know.
What the evidence suggests
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A 2022 meta-analysis of prospective studies found that playing a musical instrument was associated with a ~36–40% lower risk of dementia (hazard ratio ≈ 0.64) among older adults. SpringerLink+2PMC+2
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A long-term twin-pair study (controlling for genetics, upbringing, education, and physical activity) observed that the twin who played an instrument was significantly less likely to develop dementia than the non-playing twin (odds ratio ≈ 0.36). PubMed+1
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A very recent (2025) study of 10,800 older adults (age 70+) found that those who regularly listened to music had a 39% lower risk of dementia, and those who played a musical instrument had a ~35% reduction. Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research+2Neuroscience News+2
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The same study also noted improved scores on memory and cognitive tests (episodic memory, global cognition) among those who listened/played regularly. ScienceDaily+1
Why this might help: playing an instrument likely engages many brain areas — memory, coordination, emotion, learning — which helps build “cognitive reserve,” the brain’s resilience to age-related changes or pathology. PubMed+2PMC+2
Why this doesn’t prove “pianists don’t get dementia”
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All the studies are observational: they show a correlation, not proof that playing piano prevents dementia. It’s possible that people who choose to play music also have other lifestyle factors (social engagement, higher education, healthier habits) that reduce risk. Indeed, some studies try to adjust for education and physical activity — but it’s very hard to control for all confounding factors. PubMed+2SpringerLink+2
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The evidence base is still small: the meta-analysis included only three prospective studies. PubMed+1
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“Reduced risk” isn’t zero risk. A lower probability doesn’t equal immunity. People who play instruments may still get dementia; playing music just seems associated with lower odds.
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There’s variability: not all studies find equally strong associations. For example, a large study of Japanese older adults found significant risk reduction in women who played instruments, but a weaker or non-significant effect in men. PubMed
So: is it “true” that fewer pianists get dementia?
We can’t say “true” as a guarantee — but yes: according to current evidence, playing a musical instrument (including piano) is associated with a significantly lower likelihood of developing dementia/cognitive impairment in older adulthood.
In simpler terms: playing piano may help lower your risk — and that’s good news — but it’s not a protective guarantee. Dementia is complex and depends on many factors (genetics, lifestyle, overall brain health, vascular health, etc.).
My take (given what we know + your background)
Given your scientific training: playing piano or another instrument could be considered part of a multifaceted brain-health strategy — along with good diet, exercise, social engagement, mental stimulation, avoiding neurotoxins, etc. It’s a low-cost, enjoyable, and low-risk “intervention” with plausible benefit.
