A report from Sweden’s Karolinska Institute suggests that parenthood extends life expectancy by about two years. A man of my age (61) can expect to live 20 more years rather than the 18 allotted for the childless.
As is often the case, I find myself feeling grateful to my children. They have not only brought me pleasure, laughter and meaning, but also it turns out that they are acting as a kind of elixir to keep me around. With four daughters – and I know this isn’t mathematically accurate, but allow me my fantasies – I reckon I should be good for at least another 25 years. The question is, why does this effect take place?
