Although researchers aren't sure why, they have found a link between optimism and a longer lifespan.
They said the results were maintained when accounting for other factors, including demographic factors like education or disease.
Lewina Lee, PhD, clinical research psychologist at the National Center for PTSD at VA Boston and assistant professor of psychiatry at BUSM, and a paper author, said:"While research has identified many risk factors for diseases and premature death, we know relatively less about positive psychosocial factors that can promote healthy aging.
"This study has strong public health relevance because it suggests that optimism is one such psychosocial asset that has the potential to extend the human lifespan. Interestingly, optimism may be modifiable using relatively simple techniques or therapies.
Researchers also said those who were more optimistic were likely to have healthier habits, such as taking part in exercise, and less likely to smoke, which may contribute.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Looking on the bright side can officially help you live longer, scientists sayTime to change your glass-half-empty mindset
Read more »
Looking on the bright side 'means you live longer'Monty Python's advice may have been right as a US study finds that optimists live longer.
Read more »
Optimism may hold secret to longer life, study suggestsResearch claims people who ‘look on the bright side’ stand better chance of reaching 85
Read more »
Optimists are up to 70% more likely to live to be 85, study findsAfter tracking nearly 70,000 US men and women, researchers at Boston University found that men with good attitudes live up to 11% longer on average and women live 15% longer.
Read more »
Star Wars 9 Rise of Skywalker Disney D23 TRAILER: Has Rey turned to the Dark Side? WATCHSTAR WARS 9 The Rise of Skywalker's Disney D23 trailer has arrived online, with new footage, including a shocking look at Rey looking like she's joined the Dark Side.
Read more »
Crowd control: street photographer Shane Taylor’s images of LondonA hit on Instagram, Taylor’s quest for finding connections in crowds helped him overcome social anxiety
Read more »