Source note · R035
Long-term musical training can protect against age-related upregulation of neural activity in speech-in-noise perception
Brain imaging compares speech-in-noise processing among older lifelong musicians, older nonmusicians and younger adults.
- Setting
- Related music & arts
- Kind of evidence
- Survey & observational
- Review extent
- Selected sections reviewed
What was studied
A cross-sectional functional MRI analysis with 24 participants in each of three groups, using a previously collected dataset.
What it contributes
The analysis identifies group differences in neural activity during a speech-in-noise task.
Where the evidence stops
Selection, education and lifetime experience may contribute to the differences. The title’s protective wording does not establish causation or show what happens when an older adult returns to a band.
A reanalysis of an existing imaging dataset
This paper analyzes a previously collected dataset. A new analysis can answer a new question without representing a new group of participants.
About this review
This is a targeted review of selected sections. The record should not be read as an appraisal of the entire work.
Source note updated September 7, 2026. Read our approach to evidence.