New research from University College London suggests that engaging in arts and cultural activities, such as visiting museums, singing, or painting, may slow the pace of biological ageing. The study, published in the journal Innovation in Aging, is the first to show that both active participation and attendance at arts events are associated with a younger biological age.
Professor Daisy Fancourt, lead author of the study, said the findings demonstrate the health impact of the arts at a biological level, providing evidence that arts engagement should be recognised as a health-promoting behaviour similar to exercise. However, she cautioned that slower ageing does not necessarily mean longer life, and more research is needed to establish causal effects on longevity.
The study analysed blood test and survey data from 3,556 adults in the UK Household Longitudinal Study. Participants who engaged in arts activities at least weekly showed a 4% slower ageing process under one assessment method, while monthly engagement led to a 3% slowdown. Another test found that weekly participants were on average a year younger biologically than those who rarely engaged.
Dr Feifei Bu, senior author, noted that the benefit is comparable to the difference between smokers and those who quit smoking. The findings build on evidence that arts activities can reduce stress, lower inflammation, and improve cardiovascular disease risk. Hollie Smith-Charles from Arts Council England said the results highlight the importance of accessible culture for healthy ageing.
