TRADITIONALLY the theory has been "an apple a day keeps the doctor away", however, new research from the UK suggests a monthly dose of culture can increase life expectancy.
The study published in The BMJ found participants aged over 50 who attended "receptive arts engagements" such as trips to museums, concerts or theatres, at least once every few months had a 31% lower risk of dying in the 14 years after the study began, than those who did not.
Participants who had an annual dose of culture at a 14% lower risk of death at the follow-up period than those in the group who shunned the arts.
The authors noted that going to exhibitions and performances supported cognitive reserve, and promoted empathy, social perception, and emotional intelligence, which are all linked to a greater chance of survival.
"Arts engagement could help to reduce sedentary behaviours, which are well established predictors of cardiovascular health and immune function, and might also reduce risk taking behaviours," they said.
"Arts engagement is linked to a greater sense of purpose in life, which is itself associated with better immune function and healthier behaviours."
Attending religious ceremonies and eating out were also linked to increased longevity, so ditch the gym membership and go out more in 2020!
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