UCL Study Links Arts Engagement to Slower Aging

A new study from University College London researchers reveals that frequent participation in arts and cultural activities, such as visiting museums, singing, dancing or painting, is linked to slower biological aging. The findings, published in the journal Innovation in Aging, draw from survey responses and blood tests of 3,556 adults in the UK Household Longitudinal Study, which began in 2009.

The researchers measured biological aging through epigenetic clocks, which track DNA methylation patterns in blood samples to estimate how quickly the body ages compared to chronological age. They examined seven such clocks, including the newer DunedinPACE for aging pace and PhenoAge for biological age.

Results showed clear dose-response effects. Participants engaging in arts activities at least three times a year aged 2 percent more slowly, those doing so monthly aged 3 percent more slowly, and weekly participants aged 4 percent more slowly, according to the DunedinPACE clock. On the PhenoAge clock, weekly engagers averaged one year younger biologically than those who rarely participated, surpassing the half-year gain seen in weekly exercisers. These effects held after adjusting for body...