BEIJING, April 8 (Xinhuanet) -- Elderly people receiving home-based program, including occupational and physical therapy as well as some minor home modifications, are likely to live longer compared to those who didn't, says a new study.

    The study included more than 300 people at an average age of 79 who were still living at home but were just beginning to encounter some function challenges.

    The study found the home-based program allowed seniors to maintain their independence providing physical, social and psychological benefits.

    In fact, people who received this intervention gained an average 3.5 years of lifespan compared to those who didn't, according to researchers at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia.

    The results of the study were published in the March issue of the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

    (Agencies)