Senior News Line: Play the piano for brain health

I’ve been reading in too many places about taking steps to hold off memory and cognitive impairment, so I’ve paid attention to some of the ideas we can use to keep our brains active.

One idea that’s been very enticing is playing the piano and using that as a protective factor against dementia and impairment.

When I began my hunt for a piano, I quickly realized that space would be a major consideration, never mind the expense of a real piano. However, there are smaller electronic pianos, and I bought one: a Yamaha Piaggero NP-12.

I’ve placed it on a board between two two-drawer file cabinets to avoid the additional cost of the metal stand and seat. It only has 61 keys, rather than the standard 88, but it’s enough and fits into the space I have and only weighs 11 pounds.

It’s a great little piano even for those who’ve played before — it’s touch sensitive, for those who know about these things. It has buttons to select between the sound of piano, electronic piano, organ, strings and harpsichord, with a built-in metronome and volume dial.

If you’re interested in such a piano, hunt around the internet or call music stores in your area. Be sure to order the wall plug adapter, as well, so you don’t have to worry about batteries.

If you don’t already play, consult YouTube online for beginner lessons for seniors on video. Ask at a music store, rec center or college music department about signing up for beginner lessons to get you started.

If you don’t have sheet music, look on the internet for free music you can print out — try pianosongdownload.com — or check garage sales or even the library.

Even if the first songs you learn are along the lines of “Mary Had A Little Lamb,” it’s a step in the right direction for brain health.