New research links regular arts engagement—from dancing to museum visits—to a measurably slower pace of biological aging.
A Molecular Link to Aging
A study published in the journal Innovation in Aging has found an association between engaging in arts and cultural activities and a slower pace of biological aging. Researchers analyzed data from thousands of UK adults, comparing self-reported arts participation with DNA-based measurements of biological age.
Key Findings: Slower Clocks, Younger Cells
The study, conducted by researchers at University College London (UCL), analyzed survey responses and blood test data from 3,556 participants in the UK Household Longitudinal Study. The researchers used seven different "epigenetic clocks" to estimate biological aging pace based on chemical changes to DNA.
- Aging Rate: Individuals who engaged in arts activities at least weekly showed a 4% slower aging rate under one assessment method (DunedinPACE). Monthly engagement was linked to 3% slower aging.
- Biological Age: Under the PhenoAge assessment, weekly arts participants were, on average, approximately one year younger biologically than those who rarely engaged. For context, weekly exercise was associated with a half-year younger biological age.
- Comparisons: The differences in aging pace between frequent and infrequent arts participants were described as similar to the difference between current smokers and non-smokers.
Who Benefits and How?
The association was observed for both active participation (e.g., dancing, singing, making art) and passive attendance (e.g., concerts, theater, museums). The findings were strongest among adults aged 40 and over and remained significant after researchers adjusted for factors including body mass index (BMI), smoking status, education, and income.
Context and Limitations
The study, the first to link arts and cultural engagement to biological aging at a molecular level, builds on prior research associating arts activities with reduced stress, lower inflammation, and improved cardiovascular health. The World Health Organization has highlighted arts interventions for health benefits.
"Slower biological aging does not necessarily indicate a longer lifespan," the researchers noted, emphasizing that the "epigenetic clocks" used are predictive of morbidity and mortality.
The study’s cross-sectional design, which analyzes data from a single point in time, cannot establish causation. Researcher Eamonn Mallon has noted the possibility that biologically younger individuals may be more likely to engage in activities. More research is needed to establish causal effects on longevity.
Statements from Researchers
Lead author Prof. Daisy Fancourt (UCL) stated that the results demonstrate a health impact of the arts at a biological level and suggested arts engagement should be recognized as a health-promoting behavior.
Senior author Dr. Feifei Bu noted the findings build on evidence of arts’ health effects and that the arts may affect health through biological processes.
Hollie Smith-Charles (Arts Council England) and Mark Ball (Southbank Centre) commented on the importance of arts access for well-being. Researchers stated they plan to analyze data across different countries and populations.