A study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice has found that voting in a political election can reduce the risk of mortality by up to 15 years. The researchers analyzed health data tied to the 2008 presidential election to determine each person's risk of dying over the next five, 10 and 15 years, and found that older adults who voted in 2008 had a lower early mortality risk. However, those who were already in poorer health when they voted were still benefiting from the act 15 years later. The study's results were not explained by a participant's financial, education, civic engagement or political party. The research suggests that voting itself is more important than the method of voting or even who they voted for. The American Heart Association also highlighted the potential long-term benefits of voting as individuals age.