Study Links Arts Engagement to 4% Slower Biological Aging, Matching Exercise

4 articles · Updated · BuzzFeed · May 27

More than 3,500 UK adults who regularly engaged with arts and culture showed biological aging rates about 4% slower—roughly one year younger biologically—than less engaged peers.
Blood-sample analysis in the UK Household Longitudinal Study found the association was comparable to physical activity, with stronger findings among participants aged 40 and older.
Researchers counted both frequency and variety of activities, including singing, dancing, painting, exhibitions, museums, libraries and heritage-site visits; diversity mattered as much as how often people took part.
The authors said the results support treating arts engagement as a health-promoting behavior, but cautioned that self-reported activity could bias the data and that healthier people may simply be more able to participate.

Which specific art forms offer the most powerful anti-aging effects on our cells?

If art is as good as exercise, should doctors start prescribing museum visits?