WASHINGTON — A study published in the journal Gerontology Innovation in Aging found that adults who participate in arts and cultural activities show signs of slower biological aging. The analysis linked engagement in activities such as attending concerts, visiting museums or theater performances, creating art, dancing and singing to reduced epigenetic aging across several measures.

The study drew on data from 3,556 adults in the U.K. Household Longitudinal Study. Data collection took place between 2010 and 2012, spanning a two-year period. Researchers examined participants' arts engagement and physical activity habits alongside blood samples used to measure epigenetic aging. Participants' activities were captured over a 12-month period within that window.

Epigenetic clocks estimate a person's biological age by analyzing chemical changes to DNA over time. The study examined seven such clocks and observed differences in results across them. Arts engagement and physical activity were associated with slower aging in the PhenoAge, DunedinPoAm and DunedinPACE clocks but not in the Horvath and Hannum clocks.

The effects of arts engagement on biological aging were similar in size to those associated with physical activity. The association between arts engagement and slower aging was strongest in adults age 40 and older.

The study does not establish that arts engagement directly causes slower aging. Researchers described arts engagement as a potential pro-longevity lifestyle factor and suggested it could be included in healthy aging strategies alongside traditional health recommendations such as exercise. Previous studies have linked creative activities to lower stress and improved mental health.