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Scientists have identified factors contributing to longevity
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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Scientists have finally figured out what the secret to a long and happy life is. It turns out it's not that complicated: you need to have good family relationships, a loyal four-legged friend, and lots of friends. At least, that's what scientists from the Harvard School of Medicine say.
Experts say that these three factors are very important for long years of happy life. At the same time, according to scientists, a person's social status or the size of his wallet does not matter.
This study started back in 1940. During the observation of 200 young men and women, every two years experts gave an assessment of what was happening in the life of each participant. All subjects were of the same age, both from wealthy families and below average, they regularly reported to scientists about their family and material well-being.
Study leader Professor George Vaillant says having a trusting, stable relationship between a man and a woman is the key to a long and happy family life.
Experts noted that only 31 single men have survived to this day, while more than a third of the men who participated in the study, who are married and where there is love and understanding, are still alive.
"A caring and loving family is a very important component of longevity. Even people in their seventies and nineties can find love and enjoy happiness despite all the losses and hardships they have experienced," says Dr. Vaillant.
Having compared the data on the current life of the participants and some of the results of the scientists' research, the specialists came to the conclusion that the families of the subjects, in which there are children, pets and a large number of friends, are not only happy, but also have good indicators of general health. According to the scientists, it is all about positive emotions and peace of mind, which contributes to the prolongation of human life.
Researchers say that couples who cannot have children can get a dog that will brighten up their loneliness, give them positive emotions, and also become a family member for the owners who needs to be taken care of and who will make them smile in difficult times.
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