My grandfather always had a saying, “Age is just a number.”

He’d point out the spry 80-year-old who could recite poetry by heart or solve a crossword in record time. He was onto something, I think. Mental sharpness and agility aren’t exclusive to the young.

But let’s be real.

Not everyone in their 70s is up to speed on the latest tech trends or able to recall detailed memories from decades ago. There’s an assumption that as we age, our mental faculties inevitably decline.

But what if I told you that’s not always the case?

If you’re in your 70s and can still do these seven things, you might be sharper than most people your age. It’s not about being a superhuman, it’s about understanding the signs of a keen mind that remains engaged and active.

This article is for those in their golden years seeking affirmation of their mental prowess. Or maybe you’re a younger reader, curious about what to strive for as the years roll on. Either way, let’s dive into these indicators of mental sharpness in your 70s and beyond.

And remember, no matter your age, your mind is a muscle that can always benefit from a good workout!

1) You’re a bookworm

Remember the joy of getting lost in a good book?

If you’re still an avid reader in your 70s, that’s a great sign. Reading isn’t just a leisurely activity – it’s a workout for your brain.

Diving into a novel or a non-fiction book requires concentration, memory, and comprehension. It stimulates your imagination and expands your understanding of the world.

Studies have shown that regular reading can slow down cognitive decline and even enhance brain connectivity. So, if you’re frequently found with a book in hand, you’re certainly on the right track.

Keep turning those pages!

2) You’re tech-savvy

Now, I’m not saying you need to be a coding genius or a social media influencer. But if you can navigate your smartphone or use a computer with ease, that’s a big plus.

Here’s an example from my own life.

My Uncle George is in his late 70s. He’s always been an early adopter of technology, fascinated by the latest gadgets. But it’s not just about having the latest iPhone or a smart home system.

He’s the one who taught me how to use online maps for navigation. He video calls his friends and family regularly – yes, he knows his way around Zoom! And he keeps himself updated on world news and events through digital platforms.

The ability to adapt to new technology shows mental flexibility and openness to learning – both signs of a sharp mind. So, if you’re like Uncle George, you’re ahead of the curve.

Keep clicking, swiping, and exploring!

3) You embrace solitude

Society often paints a picture of loneliness when we think of solitude in old age. But there’s a big difference between being alone and feeling lonely.

In your 70s, if you can enjoy your own company, it’s a testament to your mental strength.

You’ve probably had your fair share of bustle and noise, raising children, climbing career ladders, and navigating friendships and relationships.

Now, in the quiet moments when you’re by yourself, you have the chance to reflect, to understand yourself better, to enjoy peaceful hobbies.

My neighbour, Mrs. Thompson, is a perfect example. She’s in her mid-70s and lives alone since her husband passed away. But she’s never lonely.

She spends her time tending to her beautiful garden, reading, painting, and even doing puzzles. She says these moments of solitude are precious to her – a time for self-discovery and growth.

If you can savour your own company without feeling anxious or lonely, that’s a sign of a strong mind. It shows self-awareness and emotional resilience.

Keep enjoying those precious moments of solitude!

4) You’re a lifelong learner

Learning doesn’t stop when you leave school or retire from your job. It’s a never-ending journey.

If you’re still curious and eager to learn new things in your 70s, you’re definitely sharper than most.

It could be anything. Maybe you’ve taken up a foreign language or started learning how to play a musical instrument. Perhaps you’ve joined a pottery class or are taking online courses in history or astronomy.

This thirst for knowledge keeps your brain active and engaged. It encourages mental agility and adaptability, giving your cognitive abilities a boost.

So, if you’re still adding strings to your bow and expanding your horizons, keep going! Your brain is thanking you for it.

5) You’re physically active

Yes, you read that right. Your physical activity has a direct impact on your mental sharpness.

It’s not about running marathons or lifting heavy weights. Simple activities like walking, gardening, swimming, or even yoga can do wonders.

Research has shown that regular physical activity, particularly in older age, can boost memory and cognitive function. It increases blood flow to the brain and helps in the growth of new neurons.

My friend Rita is a prime example. In her early 70s, she participates in a local dance class twice a week. She says it’s not just about keeping physically fit – it keeps her mind sharp too.

If you’re still lacing up your walking shoes or stretching out on a yoga mat, you’re doing more for your brain than you might think. Keep moving!

6) You maintain strong relationships

We’re social creatures by nature. The relationships we nurture feed our emotional health and, believe it or not, our mental sharpness.

If you’re still investing time and effort in maintaining strong relationships in your 70s, you’re doing wonders for your mind.

It’s not about the quantity of friends or family you have. It’s about the quality of those connections – the deep conversations, the shared laughter, the mutual support.

My dear friend Margaret is a testament to this. In her 70s, she has a small circle of friends. They meet for coffee every week, share stories, offer advice, and support each other through life’s ups and downs. Margaret says these friendships keep her young at heart and sharp of mind.

So, if you’re still making the effort to connect with others and nurture meaningful relationships, know that you’re not just enriching your life – you’re also keeping your mind sharp.

Keep connecting!

7) You’re adaptable to change

Change is the only constant in life. If you’re still able to adapt to change in your 70s, you’re sharper than most.

Change can be daunting at any age. But it’s especially challenging as we get older and routines become more comfortable.

Being adaptable signifies a flexible mind, one that can adjust to new situations and embrace different experiences. It’s about being open-minded and resilient in the face of life’s inevitable shifts.

If you find yourself adjusting to changes with relative ease, you should give yourself a pat on the back. Your mental sharpness is indeed commendable.

Keep embracing the new!

Embracing your sharpness

If you see yourself in these seven signs, give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back. You’re mentally sharper than most people your age, and that’s something to be proud of.

But even more importantly, remember this – mental sharpness isn’t about competition. It’s not a race. It’s about personal growth, continual learning, and making the most of the wonderful life you have.

It’s about embracing change, nurturing relationships, staying active, and feeding your curiosity. It’s about enjoying solitude, staying tech-savvy, and losing yourself in a good book.

Every day is a new opportunity to learn something new, to stretch your mind, to engage with the world around you.

So keep going. Keep growing. Keep shining.

After all, age is just a number. And you’re proving it right every single day.