Yu-Hung Chang, PhD
Yu-Hung Chang, PhD, is a researcher at the Institute of Population Health Sciences in Taiwan and leader of a study published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health.
Sometimes the thought of working out makes me want to pull the covers over my head—but now I hear that it might do me good to hit the stores instead. Reason: According to recent research, shopping is good for a person’s health.
This study involved 1,841 seniors ages 65 and older who were asked how often they went shopping. Possible answers ranged from “daily” to “never.” Findings: Participants who reported shopping every day were 27% less likely to die during the study period than those who ventured out to stores less frequently. Theory: Shopping involves various factors believed to extend longevity, including physical activity and increased social interaction.
Bottom line: Next time you feel the need for some retail therapy, don’t feel guilty. You can even save your money—because window-shopping works, too.