A new study from University College London (UCL) has found that engaging in arts and cultural activities—such as singing, painting, or visiting museums and galleries—is associated with a slower pace of biological ageing. The research, published in the journal Innovation in Aging, provides the first evidence that both active participation in the arts and attendance at cultural events can have a measurable impact on health at a biological level.
Key Findings
The study analyzed blood test and survey data from 3,556 adults aged 40 and older from the UK Household Longitudinal Study. Researchers used epigenetic clocks to estimate biological age and the pace of ageing. Participants who engaged in arts activities at least weekly showed a 4% slower ageing process, while monthly engagement led to a 3% slowdown. Under another measure, those who participated weekly were biologically about one year younger than those who rarely engaged in such activities—a benefit comparable to the difference between smokers and non-smokers.
Health Benefits Comparable to Exercise
Lead author Professor Daisy Fancourt, head of the social biobehavioural research group at UCL, said: "These results demonstrate the health impact of the arts at a biological level. They provide evidence for arts and cultural engagement to be recognised as a health-promoting behaviour in a similar way to exercise." The study builds on previous research showing that arts activities can reduce stress, lower inflammation, and improve cardiovascular health.
Implications for Public Health
Dr. Feifei Bu, senior author and UCL academic, noted: "Our study provides the first evidence that arts and cultural engagement is linked to a slower pace of biological ageing." The findings support growing calls for the arts to be integrated into public health strategies. Hollie Smith-Charles, director of creative health at Arts Council England, said: "These impressive new findings are further evidence that arts, museums and libraries help us live well for longer."
Broader Context
The research aligns with a 2019 World Health Organization report highlighting the health benefits of the arts, including music therapy before surgery and dementia care. Mark Ball, artistic director of London's Southbank Centre, commented: "Across the arts sector we have known for a long time that getting creative yields extraordinary benefits for our health. This latest research proves that arts and culture can even slow down the biological clock."
While slower ageing does not guarantee a longer lifespan, the study adds to evidence linking arts engagement with improved health outcomes. The researchers emphasize that further studies are needed to establish causal effects on longevity.
