Study Links Weekly Arts Activities to Slower Biological Aging

A study of more than 3,500 adults in the UK found that people who took part in arts and cultural activities at least once a week showed slower biological aging than those who participated less often. Researchers measured biological age through seven epigenetic clocks that detect DNA changes linked to aging.

Participants who engaged in activities such as singing, dancing, painting, photography, museum visits, or trips to historic sites at least weekly had a biological age about one year younger on average than those who took part fewer than three times a year.

One epigenetic clock showed that taking part in an arts activity at least three times a year was associated with a 2% slower rate of aging. Monthly participation was tied to aging 3% slower, while weekly participation was linked to a 4% slower rate compared to those who took part fewer than three times a year.

The study found that mixing different activities appeared more beneficial than repeating the same hobby. Researchers noted that each activity may provide different physical, cognitive, emotional, or social stimulation.

Weekly arts participation was associated with a biological age about one year younger on average. By comparison, those who exercised at least weekly were just over half a year younger on average. The links were strongest among adults 40 and older and remained after researchers adjusted for body mass index, smoking, income, and education level.

Not every epigenetic clock showed the same effects. "These results demonstrate the health impact of the arts at a biological level," Daisy Fancourt, lead author of the study and a professor of psychobiology and epidemiology at University College London, said in a press release.

"Our study provides the first evidence that arts and cultural engagement is linked to a slower pace of biological ageing," Dr. Feifei Bu, a principal research fellow in epidemiology at UCL who served as senior author of the paper, said.