🌅 Engaging with Art Makes You “Biologically Younger”

SOURCE

Fancourt et al. (2026)

WHAT TO KNOW

• A new study by researchers at University College London in the U.K. suggests people who engage with art on a weekly basis age about 4% slower than those who don’t, meaning they’re about a year “younger,” biologically. The study found the reduced rate of aging was consistent among people who both do art (e.g., those who sing, dance, paint, play an instrument, etc.) and those who take it in (e.g., by going to concerts, museums, art galleries, etc.). The researchers also found the reduction in aging associated with the arts was the same as that of physical activity.

WHY IT MATTERS

• A person’s biological age is different from their chronological age. Researchers assess biological age using a tool called an epigenetic clock, which, without getting lost in the weeds, analyzes chemical changes to DNA that indicate aging. Previous studies have shown that healthy habits, like consistent exercise and a healthy diet, can slow a person’s epigenetic clock, while unhealthy habits, like smoking and a sedentary lifestyle, accelerates it. The present study suggests engaging with art should be part of a healthy lifestyle, just like eating well and exercising.

CONNECT THE DOTS

• The authors of the present study didn’t investigate the biological mechanism driving the reduced rate of aging associated with art, however, other work shows viewing art reduces stress and boosts emotions, which lowers inflammation and is linked to a range of other positive health outcomes. Experts say that while more work is needed, the present study suggests engaging with art is a non-pharmalogical intervention that could boost longevity.