New research suggests we all like to feel needed and a sense of purpose is good for our health.

Those with a strong sense of purpose were 70 per cent less likely to suffer a stroke according to a study of 7,000 people.  Eric Kim, the clinical psychologist who led the study at University of Michegan said: “Maintaining a purpose in life not only increases quality of life but may improve physical health and increase longevity.”  Other similar research has shown that positive attitude and mood can also lower the stress hormone cortisol.  Cary Cooper, professor of health psychology at Lancaster University said: “This is significant as we have an ageing population and it helps show what behaviours inoculate people from getting ill.  Maybe retirement is not good for some.”