It has been shown in many studies that regularly going to church or religious services can decrease death rates among older people. Religious people have lower blood pressure, less depression and anxiety, stronger immune systems and usually cost the health care system less than those who are less involved in religion.
Research has shown that those who attend church at least once a week have a 23% lower risk of dying. This US study was conducted over a 28 year period. Another study conducted in the US, states that weekly religious attendance is nearly as effective as statins and exercise in extending life. Also, other things that are worthy of mentioning is the fact that regular attendance at a church provides more social support to an individual, which may in the long run also help to extend life. People’s life can become enriched through religion and regular religious attendance, mentally, physically and spiritually. Church’s provide social networks and support to members. To create a sense of community and love and to be able to share with others really helps people feel better about themselves and about life in general.
There have also been many studies done on prayer and the power of prayer. People praying for each other and praying for others seems to have an effect on the overall health of the individual. Perhaps, just knowing that someone else really cares about your well-being and that there is something much bigger than you that also cares about your life, can help improve the health of an individual. Religion helps promote health in society. Whether it is just perception or it is about having faith and the idea of a tight community, religion, no doubt, helps extend the life of a person, not only in quantity, but also in the quality of life.
