Quiz: Music and Brain Health

Music activates brain regions involved in emotion and reward, which may help explain its mood-boosting effects. Read more here.

Trying new music introduces novelty, which can help keep the brain engaged. Exploring different styles and genres may provide a fresh mental workout. Discover why variety matters here.

A favorite song can stir up feelings and memories tied to important people, places and moments in life. Because music is connected to many parts of the brain, hearing a meaningful song can sometimes help a person with dementia reconnect with experiences that seem forgotten. Learn more here.

Relaxing music may help some people fall asleep more easily and improve sleep quality. Discover more here.

Along with helping people with dementia, music can have a positive effect on both stroke rehabilitation and Parkinson’s disease therapy. Many adults who have suffered a stroke lose their ability to speak but can still sing. Similarly, many adults with Parkinson’s disease have difficulty walking, but music and dance can help strengthen movement and improve gait. Read more here.