In 2016, Yale began following 3,635 people aged 50+; 12 years later, those reading books regularly showed a 23% lower mortality hazard, with readers reaching an 80% survival point 23 months later

Yale researchers tracked 3,635 adults aged 50 and older over a twelve-year study. Their findings showed that regular book readers had a 23 percent lower mortality hazard. Active book readers reached an 80 percent survival milestone 23 full months later than non-readers. Deep cognitive engagement from daily reading strengthens brain function over time. Reading books regularly remains one of the most effective habits for living a longer life.