Cultural Activities May Be Linked To Slower Aging
A recent study by University College London suggests that cultural activities and hobbies may be associated with slower biological aging and, potentially, greater longevity. The researchers analyzed data from 3,556 British adults and observed people who maintained a regular routine of recreational and cultural activities These included listening to music, singing, dancing, reading, painting, and visiting museums, exhibitions, and concerts. These individuals showed signs of aging that were up to about 4% slower than those who rarely participated in such activities. According to the study, this difference would be equivalent, in biological terms, to approximately one less year of aging compared to the less culturally engaged groups. The study used blood tests and “epigenetic clocks,” tools that assess changes in DNA related to cellular aging. The benefits may be linked to a reduction in chronic stress, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk factors, health concerns that are associated with accelerated aging. Although it is not yet possible to establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, the research reinforces the idea that health does not depend solely on diet and physical exercise.
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Findings could help us better understand why some people remain physically and cognitively resilient at exceptionally advanced ages.
Representatives from nonprofit music organization Midwest Young Artists Conservatory in Highwood, Illinois were denied a request to have complementary use of the Riviera ballroom, 812 Wrigley Drive in Lake Geneva, for their holiday concerts, which are scheduled to be held at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20. Lake Geneva City Council members denied the request on June 22 by a 5-2 vote with alders Linda Frame and Joel Hoiland voting “no.” Midwest Young Artists officials now will have to pay the $1,000 nonprofit rental rate as well as a $600 for staff costs to use the ballroom for the event. Several alders indicated that are in favor of the group performing at the Riviera ballroom but feel they should pay the rental rate as other nonprofit organizations. Members of the Midwest Young Artists Conservancy performed similar holiday concerts at the Riviera ballroom last December, which attracted about 700 people. The group has performed several other concerts in Lake Geneva. The Midwest Young Artists Conservancy offers orchestra, jazz, choral and music chamber programs for youth in kindergarten-12th grade.
