The Minds Changing Lives

Could creative ageing be the key to preserving cognition?

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Episode notes

The positive influence of creativity on the ageing brain is well reported, but until now, scientific evidence of its impact on cognitive function has been lacking. Associate Professor Helen English and Professor Frini Karayanidis from the University of Newcastle are undertaking critical research to investigate the impact of creative ageing on cognition with programs that invite older adults to participate in song writing or art. Funded by Dementia Australia, the study aims to identify the important ingredients of creative activity programs that drive benefits in wellbeing. Meet Joan, a 75-year-old who learnt how to compose her own song despite never being a musical person, and Doug, who tells us why it’s never too late to learn art.

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