The latest form of recognized “therapy” might well be “retail therapy” or SHOPPING!  A dose of regular retail therapy really does seem to help people live longer, according to research published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.

Those who shopped daily were 27 percent likely to live longer than those who did not.  The authors of the study which  took place in Taiwan of almost 2000 older adults suggest that shopping may improve health in ways beyond the mental rush.   Frequent shopping may not always be about buying things, but about mental stimulation, exercise and all of the social implications like interacting with others and the companionship of shopping with someone.

“Shopping captures several dimensions of personal wellbeing, health, and security as well as contributing to the community's cohesiveness and economy, and may represent or actually confer increased longevity,” the researchers conclude.

Will a study on the health value of returning what they bought be far behind?  In the meantime, head for the mall – it is good for you.