Work To Promote Longivity

Are you having trouble getting back into the work swing after the holidays? Cheer up -- your job may be helping you live longer.
In a recent study, people who retired early had higher mortality rates than people who kept working beyond age 55. More research is needed to determine if people's reasons for early retirement played a role in their longevity. In the meantime, staying active and busy, whether through work you enjoy or hobbies, is best for your physical and mental health.

Regardless of whether you work or not, you should find ways to maintain personal satisfaction and a sense of purpose in your life. Engage in work you enjoy, hobbies, volunteer causes, sporting activities, or social pursuits with your friends and family to help protect your health. In a recent study, people who worked for an industrial company and retired at age 55 suffered higher mortality rates than people of the same age who kept working. However, more research is need to determine if particular reasons for early retirement, such as for health reasons or because of forced retirement, affect mortality rates more than other reasons, such as having the financial means to retire early by choice. To promote longevity after retirement, keep busy, maintain fulfilling relationships with others, exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, and engage in activities that create a sense of purpose in your life.

Becoming a lifelong learner can make your age as much as 2.5 years younger.