Several studies suggest optimists live longer and enjoy better health than pessimists. The real mystery is why. … Perhaps optimists enjoy better health and longer lives because they lead healthier lifestyles, build stronger social support networks, and get better medical care, the Health Watch article suggests.

No mention of recent findings that conservatives are happier people than liberals. And why are they happier? Optimism (emphasis added):

Half of the difference between conservatives and liberals is demographic. It has to do with religion and marriage, which is more frequent among conservatives. The real question is why is the other half unexplained? Conservatives have a different orientation. Conservatives think there is a lot of opportunity in America. A lot of liberals feel this way, too, but conservatives overwhelmingly believe if you go around and work hard and persevere, you’re going to get ahead, as opposed to you are a victim of circumstance or oppression and you are screwed in life. Again, that might be right, but it’s not happy.

So, conservatives are more optimistic and happier than liberals. And findings show optimistic people are healthier and live longer than gloom-and-doomers. Ergo, conservatism will make you healthier and allow you to live longer.