#12 Stamp collectors live a long, happy and healthy life Nazi hunter and stamp collector Simon Wiesenthal lived 95 years. In 1948, unable to sleep from the anxiety he felt tracking former Nazis, Wiesenthal visited his doctor. “He suggested that I do something at night to take my mind off my troubles, and that’s how I began collecting postage stamps,” Wiesenthal explained. “My hobby has since given me many pleasant hours and helped me to meet people in many countries.” Wiesenthal is typical of collectors who live a happier and healthier life. My father lived to 92. I know of many other collectors active into their 80s and 90s. Hobbies are good for our health because they help lower stress and depression (risk factors for various diseases) and keep us part of an active social community. Stamp collecting fills the bill because it can be pursued without spending much money, doesn’t require specialized tools, and there are many stamp groups (including on line) to keep us involved with life no matter what our age. We believe that the mental stimulation is good for exercising our brains too. 13
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