Arts and cultural engagement ‘linked to slower pace of biological ageing’

A new study from University College London (UCL) reveals that regular participation in arts and cultural activities—such as painting, singing, or attending exhibitions—slows biological ageing. The research, published in *Innovation in Aging*, analyzed blood test and survey data from 3,556 adults aged 40 and older in the UK Household Longitudinal Study. Those engaging in arts activities weekly showed a 4% slower ageing rate, while monthly participation resulted in a 3% reduction, according to epigenetic clock measurements. The findings suggest arts engagement has a comparable impact on ageing as quitting smoking. Weekly arts participants were biologically a year younger than those rarely engaging, while weekly exercisers were only six months younger by comparison. Prof Daisy Fancourt, lead author and head of UCL’s social biobehavioural research group, stated the results demonstrate the health benefits of arts at a biological level, comparable to exercise. The study also highlighted that middle-aged and older adults experienced the greatest benefits. Participants reported activities like singing, dancing, crafting, or visiting museums, libraries, and heritage sites. While slower ageing does not guarantee longevity, previous studies link arts engagement to reduced stress, lower inflammation, and improved cardiovascular health. Dr Feifei Bu, a senior author, noted this is the first evidence linking arts engagement to slower biological ageing. Arts Council England’s Hollie Smith-Charles called the findings vital for promoting accessible culture, reinforcing earlier WHO reports on arts improving mental and physical health, such as music therapy for surgery patients and dementia care. The research underscores the potential for arts programs to be integrated into public health strategies, alongside exercise, to support long-term well-being.