Source note · R072
Effects of music learning and piano practice on cognitive function, mood and quality of life in older adults
A small piano study reports mixed cognitive, mood and quality-of-life findings after four months.
- Setting
- Related music & arts
- Kind of evidence
- Intervention studies
- Review extent
- Selected sections reviewed
What was studied
A nonrandomized comparison of piano learners with people in other leisure activities; 13 piano participants and 16 controls remained after withdrawals and exclusions.
What it contributes
Selected outcomes favored piano, several comparisons were null, and depression symptoms decreased in both groups.
Where the evidence stops
Volunteer selection, unequal attrition, a nonblinded assessor and varied comparison activities limit causal interpretation. The full results tables remain to be audited, and dementia was not an outcome.
About this review
The methods and discussion were examined, but the full results tables have not been audited.
Source note updated September 7, 2026. Read our approach to evidence.