Personality traits linked to longevity: Study reveals what helps you live longer
A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research suggests that personality traits could be as important as blood pressure or body mass index when it comes to predicting lifespan.
Researchers followed more than 22,000 adults across multiple long-term studies lasting up to 28 years and discovered that subtle self-descriptions — the everyday ways people describe themselves — may predict who lives longer.
Active, organised, and helpful traits linked to longer life
Professor Rene Mottus, an expert in ageing and individual differences, said the word “active” stood out the most. Participants who described themselves this way had a 21% lower risk of death during the study period, even after adjusting for age, gender, and existing medical conditions.
Other traits strongly linked to longevity included being energetic, responsible, thorough, hardworking, and helpful. These characteristics were associated with healthier habits, better resilience, and stronger social connections — all of which contribute to longer life.
Negative traits may shorten lifespan
On the other hand, participants who described themselves as anxious, moody, or easily upset faced a higher risk of early death. Experts explained that such traits could worsen stress responses and make it harder to maintain healthy routines.
Why personality matters in medicine
Co-author Professor Páraic O’Súilleabháin of the University of Limerick explained that the study highlights precision over broad categories like extroversion or conscientiousness. Instead, specific attitudes and behaviours — such as being organised or engaged — have measurable health impacts.
“Our study suggests personality works not just as a general influence but as a set of specific behaviours and attitudes — and those individual characteristics have a measurable impact on longevity,” said Professor O’Súilleabháin.
Independent expert Dr Ross Stewart, professor of personality and psychology at the University of Chester, welcomed the findings:
“This research shows the ways people describe themselves using individual words may be just as powerful as medical tests when predicting long-term health.”
Personality and health risks: The bigger picture
The study also confirmed that known risk factors like chronic illness, physical inactivity, and body mass index (BMI) played a role, but personality traits explained additional differences in lifespan. For instance, an “organised” person may be more likely to stick to medical routines, adopt healthier diets, or maintain social ties — all critical for healthy ageing.
UK longevity trends
The findings come at a time when longevity progress in the UK has stalled. Official statistics show that life expectancy has declined by about nine months since 2011, with the latest data suggesting boys born in 2023 can expect to live to 86.7 years, while girls are projected to live up to 90 years on average. The UK currently has more than 16,000 centenarians.
What this means for you
Experts stress that longevity is not predetermined. While genetics and health conditions play a role, personality traits — and the behaviours they influence — are modifiable. Becoming more active, organised, and socially helpful can not only improve day-to-day wellbeing but may also add years to life.
