People who regularly visit art galleries, theatres, museums or attend concerts have a lower risk of dying, according to a new study.

Researchers at the University College of London believe people who engage in the arts might have a longer life as engaging in the activity stimulates the brain.

The study followed more than 6,000 adults in England, aged 50 years and over for 14 years.

After taking in a range of economic, health and social factors, they found people who engaged in the arts once or twice a year had a 14 percent lower risk of dying at any time than those who have never engaged.