# Neurological impacts of music engagement > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/neurological-impacts-of-music-engagement > Updated: 2026-10-14T17:01:34.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Research has increasingly highlighted the neurological impact of music on cognitive health and brain function. An initial study by the Amsterdam Alzheimer Center and the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience used fMRI to demonstrate that personally meaningful music can trigger strong brain responses in dementia patients. The study noted that while Alzheimer’s patients showed brain responses similar to healthy individuals, those with frontotemporal dementia exhibited reduced activity in specific music-processing and memory regions. Subsequent research expanded on these neurological benefits, linking regular music engagement to a 39% reduction in dementia risk among adults aged 70 and older. Additionally, studies have explored the role of music in addiction recovery, using EEG to monitor brain activity. Findings suggest that music therapy may help reduce cravings in individuals treated for substance use disorders by engaging the brain’s reward system through active music-making and songwriting. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-14: Music engagement linked to reduced dementia risk and addiction recovery Studies show music engagement can lower dementia risk by 39% in older adults and help reduce cravings in individuals undergoing treatment for substance use disorders. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/music-engagement-linked-to-reduced-dementia-risk-and-addiction-recovery ### 2026-09-27: Music stimulates brain responses in dementia patients, study finds Research shows that personally meaningful music can stimulate brain activity in dementia patients, though responses differ significantly between those with Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/music-stimulates-brain-responses-in-dementia-patients-study-finds --- Cite as: Neurological impacts of music engagement. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/neurological-impacts-of-music-engagement