Want to live longer? Visit an art gallery, study says

Gallery assistants pose with an artwork entitled 'Devolved Parliament' by British artist Banksy during an exhibition preview at London's Frieze Art Fair in September. Photo: AFP

New British research has found that regularly visiting museums, art galleries, the theatre or concerts could help you live longer. Carried out by researchers at University College London, the new study looked at 6,710 adults age 50 and over who self-reported how frequently they took part in arts activities, including going to the theater, concerts, opera, museums, art galleries and exhibitions.

The participants were then followed up for an average of 12 years.