In the study, more than 3,600 people over the age of 50 were observed over a 12-year period. Specialists asked participants how much time they spent reading books per week and compared these indicators with their health and lifespan.
According to the results, among those who read books for at least 3–3.5 hours per week, i.e., an average of half an hour per day, the mortality rate was almost 20 percent lower compared to those who did not read books at all.
Interestingly, such a positive effect was almost not observed with reading newspapers or magazines. The researchers noted as a reason that the process of reading a book requires more thinking, imagination, and concentration, which keeps brain activity stimulated over a long period.
According to experts, while reading books does not guarantee a longer life, it is considered one of the important factors that can increase the likelihood of living longer by reducing stress, maintaining cognitive activity, and improving overall health.
