Age is just a number – and the people who truly understand this are those who remain strong and independent well into their 80s and beyond.

It’s not about simply surviving. It’s about thriving, living life to the fullest no matter what the calendar says.

So, what’s their secret? Well, it all boils down to some key habits that these amazing folks cultivate and maintain throughout their lives.

In this article, we’ll explore 7 of these habits that might just be the key to your own independent, robust, and fulfilling golden years.

Remember, it’s never too late to start practicing these habits. After all, in the grand scheme of things, age really is just a number.

1) They prioritize their health

Without a doubt, the cornerstone of being strong and independent in your 80s and beyond is maintaining your health.

This doesn’t necessarily mean running marathons or lifting heavy weights. It’s more about smart, consistent habits that keep the body and mind in top shape.

People who thrive in their later years stay active as much as possible. They walk, garden, dance – anything that gets them moving and keeps them agile.

They also nourish their bodies with wholesome foods, full of the nutrients needed for healthy aging.

And importantly, they keep their minds active too. Reading, puzzles, learning new skills – these are all part of the routine for those who remain mentally sharp well into their golden years.

Health is wealth at any age, but it takes on a whole new meaning as we grow older. Prioritizing health is a non-negotiable habit for those who wish to stay strong and independent in their 80s and beyond.

2) They maintain a positive attitude

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing some truly inspiring individuals in their 80s and beyond who have taught me a thing or two about aging gracefully. One such person is my dear friend, Ruth.

Now in her late 80s, Ruth is as independent and vivacious as ever. And a significant part of that comes down to her unwavering positive attitude.

Even when faced with difficulties – and believe me, she’s had her share – Ruth never lets negativity overshadow her spirit.

She once told me, during a particularly challenging time, “I can’t control what happens to me, but I can control how I react to it.”

And she lives by that mantra every day. She finds joy in the smallest things, always looks for the silver lining, and never forgets to laugh.

This positive attitude is more than just an admirable trait. It’s a habit that keeps her resilient, boosts her mental health, and significantly contributes to her independence.

If we can cultivate a similar habit of positivity, we too can navigate the challenges of aging with grace and strength. Just like Ruth.

3) They practice mindfulness

If there’s one thing that stands out about those who remain strong and independent in their later years, it’s their ability to be fully present in the moment.

Mindfulness, or the practice of being fully aware and engaged in the present moment, is a powerful tool for maintaining mental clarity and emotional balance.

It helps to relieve stress, improve memory, reduce chronic pain, and even slow down the cognitive decline associated with aging.

In my book, “The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment“, I delve deep into this life-changing practice. I explore its origins, its benefits, and most importantly, how you can integrate it into your daily life.

Those who age with strength and independence understand that the present moment is all we truly have. They savor it, they live it fully, without getting entangled in regrets about the past or worries about the future.

4) They stay connected

When my grandmother was in her mid-80s, I noticed something about her that I found truly remarkable. Despite her increasing age, she was always surrounded by a vibrant community of friends and family.

Grandma understood the importance of staying connected. She nurtured her relationships, both old and new, and they were a constant source of strength and support for her.

She would spend hours on the phone catching up with old friends, attend weekly book clubs, and never missed a family gathering.

This habit of staying connected is not just about combating loneliness. It’s about maintaining a sense of purpose, sharing experiences, learning from others, and feeling valued and loved.

Connections keep us mentally sharp and emotionally healthy. They provide us with a sense of belonging and a reason to stay strong and independent.

So, whether it’s reaching out to an old friend, joining a local club or simply spending quality time with loved ones, staying connected is an essential habit for aging with strength and independence.

5) They embrace change

It’s often assumed that as people age, they become more resistant to change. But, in fact, those who remain strong and independent into their 80s and beyond often do the opposite – they embrace change.

Yes, it’s true. The world is constantly evolving, and so are we – at any age. And being open to change allows us to evolve with it.

Whether it’s learning new technology, adapting to a different routine, or even adjusting to physical changes, accepting and embracing change is crucial.

This might seem counter-intuitive because we often associate aging with a certain level of set-in-our-ways stubbornness. But the reality is that adaptability is a sign of strength and independence.

So, instead of resisting change, they see it as an opportunity to learn and grow. It keeps them mentally agile, opens up new experiences, and allows them to stay relevant in an ever-changing world.

Embracing change might not always be easy, but it’s a habit that can keep us strong and independent in our golden years.

6) They nurture their passions

Passion isn’t reserved for the young. In fact, those who remain strong and independent well into their 80s and beyond are often those who nurture their passions and interests.

Whether it’s painting, gardening, writing, or even learning a new language – having a passion gives them something to look forward to. It keeps their minds engaged, their spirits high, and adds a sense of purpose to their everyday lives.

Moreover, they don’t let age limit their pursuits. Instead, they see it as an opportunity to dive deeper into what they love, explore new interests, or even rediscover old ones.

Nurturing one’s passions is not just about keeping busy. It’s about joy, fulfillment, and the sheer excitement of doing something you love.

So, no matter how old you are, keep your passions alive. They are your personal source of happiness and a testament to your strength and independence.

7) They practice gratitude

At the heart of remaining strong and independent in your 80s and beyond lies a simple, yet powerful habit – practicing gratitude.

Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”. It’s about recognizing the good in life and appreciating everything – big or small.

People who age gracefully have this uncanny ability to find something to be grateful for, even in the face of adversity. They see the beauty in the ordinary and find joy in the simplest things.

This habit of practicing gratitude has a profound effect on their overall well-being. It fosters positivity, reduces stress, improves sleep, and promotes physical health.

But most importantly, it reminds them of the richness of their lives – a constant source of strength and independence.

Gratitude is not just a habit, it’s a way of life. And it’s arguably the most important one to cultivate if you wish to age with strength, independence and joy.

Embracing the journey

In the grand scheme of life, aging is not simply a sequence of years accumulating behind us. It’s a journey – a journey that demands strength, independence, and wisdom.

Through the lens of those in their 80s and beyond who’ve mastered this art, we’ve explored some key habits that fuel this journey.

They prioritize health, maintain a positive attitude, practice mindfulness, stay connected, embrace change, nurture their passions, and practice gratitude. But remember, these are not just habits to be ticked off a list. They are a way of life.

In my book “The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment“, I delve into how practices like mindfulness can help us fully embrace this journey, at any age.

It’s about living each moment to the fullest and finding joy in the now.

As we conclude this exploration, it’s essential to remember that every individual’s journey is unique. The habits we’ve discussed can serve as guides along the way. But ultimately, the path you carve is your own.

Embrace it. Revel in it. And remember – strength and independence are not just about standing alone. They are about standing tall, no matter what life throws at us.

Here’s to embracing our own unique journey of aging with grace, strength, and independence.