Summary
Researchers in the United States, using data from the Nurses’ Health Study and the Veterans’ Health Study, have confirmed that optimists tend to live longer and are more likely to achieve “exceptional longevity” i.e. live to an age of 85 or higher.
Reference
Looking on the bright side ‘means you live longer’ [subsequently re-titled as: An optimistic outlook ‘means you live longer’]. London: BBC Health News, August 27th 2019.
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Reference
Lee, LO. James, P. [and] Zevon, ES. [et al] (2019). Optimism is associated with exceptional longevity in 2 epidemiologic cohorts of men and women. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. August 26th 2019, 201900712. [Epub ahead of print].
There is a critical appraisal of this research:
Reference
Reason to be cheerful? ‘Optimists live longer’ study reports. London: NHS Digital Behind the Headlines, August 27th 2019.
Possibly also of interest:
Reference
Ryder, S. (2019). Humour, hobbies and friendships: your tips for staying positive. London: BBC Health News / BBC UGC Hub, August 30th 2019.