People who stay healthy and happy in their 70s and beyond typically adopt these daily habits

Eliza Hartley by Eliza Hartley | January 20, 2025, 4:21 am

There’s a noticeable difference between just growing old and aging gracefully.

The difference lies in our daily habits.

Simply aging involves letting time pass without much input, allowing life to take its course without much resistance.

Growing older while remaining healthy and happy, however, calls for conscious effort.

It involves adopting certain daily habits that not only keep you fit physically, but also mentally and emotionally.

People who seem to have cracked the code of aging gracefully have a few habits in common.

And let me tell you, it’s not rocket science, but simple practices they incorporate into their everyday lives.

Let’s delve into these daily rituals that keep people thriving in their 70s and beyond.

1) Daily physical movement

One key factor in maintaining health and happiness into the 70s and beyond, is to keep moving.

People who age gracefully understand the significance of daily exercise. It’s not necessarily about hitting the gym for strenuous workouts.

Instead, it’s about incorporating physical activity into daily life.

Walking, gardening, swimming or even dancing – these are all forms of exercise that can keep the body active, fit and agile.

Regular physical activity can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen bones, boost mental wellbeing, and maintain a healthy weight.

It’s clear to see why those who enjoy their golden years in good health make exercise a non-negotiable part of their daily routine.

But remember, always consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new exercise regimen.

2) Mindful eating

I’ve always noticed that those who maintain a vibrant lifestyle into their later years have a mindful approach to food.

My grandmother, for instance, lived a healthy and active life until she was 92. One thing she always emphasized was the importance of mindful eating.

She wasn’t on any trendy diet, but she had a simple rule – eat fresh, eat balanced, and, importantly, eat with joy and gratitude.

She savored her meals, she enjoyed a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

She was aware of what she put into her body and how it made her feel. And she had a sweet tooth too!

But she believed in moderation and enjoyed her treats without any guilt.

It taught me a lot about the relationship between food and our overall wellbeing.

Taking time to enjoy meals, eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods, and listening to your body’s needs can indeed contribute to long-term health and happiness.

3) Embracing positivity

Another common trait among people who stay healthy and happy in their senior years is a positive attitude.

Life can throw curveballs at any age, but those who age gracefully have a knack for seeing the silver lining.

They consciously cultivate a positive outlook, choosing to focus on the good in every situation.

They understand that while they can’t always control what happens to them, they can control how they respond.

By maintaining a positive mindset, they manage to keep stress at bay, which in turn contributes to better mental and physical health.

The next time you find yourself in a tough situation, try shifting your focus on the brighter side.

It’s not about ignoring the problem but about finding strength and optimism to navigate through it.

4) Practicing mindfulness

A crucial habit of those who enjoy a healthy and happy life in their 70s and beyond is practicing mindfulness.

Mindfulness, or the practice of being present and fully engaged with whatever we’re doing at the moment, has been linked to a host of benefits including reduced stress, improved focus, and better emotional resilience.

In my book The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment, I delve deeper into how this simple practice can transform your life.

I share practical ways to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine and explain how it can help you live a more fulfilled life.

People who age gracefully often have a mindful approach to life. They savor their experiences rather than rushing through them.

Whether they’re enjoying a meal, taking a walk, or spending time with loved ones, they’re fully present in that moment.

Embracing mindfulness doesn’t just enhance your personal experiences, but it also contributes to better mental and physical health, making it a key habit for aging with grace and vitality.

5) Prioritizing rest and sleep

Often overlooked but incredibly important for health and happiness in later years is the habit of ensuring adequate rest and sleep.

There were years when work and family commitments were all-consuming, leaving little time for rest or proper sleep.

The result? Constant fatigue, lack of concentration, irritability, and a general sense of not being at my best.

It’s no surprise that those who age well understand the importance of a good night’s sleep.

Regular, quality sleep helps with everything from memory consolidation to physical recovery and emotional well-being.

Making a habit of winding down before bedtime, creating a peaceful sleep environment, and listening to your body’s signals for rest can make a significant difference in overall health and happiness.

Sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. And those who age gracefully know this all too well.

6) Accepting imperfection

It might seem counterintuitive, but people who maintain their health and happiness into their 70s and beyond often adopt a habit of accepting imperfection.

While it’s important to strive for betterment, obsessing over perfection can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety.

Those who age gracefully understand that imperfection is a part of life. They focus on progress rather than perfection.

They accept that they have flaws and make mistakes, just like everyone else.

Instead of beating themselves up over these imperfections, they learn from them and move forward.

This acceptance of imperfection allows them to live more freely, reducing stress and promoting a more positive outlook on life.

After all, life isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being the best version of ourselves.

7) Staying socially connected

An important aspect of aging healthily and happily is staying socially connected.

People who age well often prioritize maintaining their relationships, whether it’s with family, friends, or within their community.

They understand that social connections are not only fulfilling but also have a significant impact on their mental and emotional health.

Regular interactions and strong social bonds can help stave off loneliness, enhance mood, and even contribute to a longer lifespan.

This could mean regular phone calls with loved ones, participating in community events, or simply enjoying a casual chat with a neighbor.

In essence, staying socially active and nurturing relationships adds joy to life and plays a crucial role in overall wellbeing as we age.

8) Regular health check-ups

Regular health check-ups are the cornerstone of aging gracefully.

People who maintain their health and happiness into their 70s and beyond understand the importance of preventive care.

They keep up with regular doctor visits, screenings, and tests to catch potential health issues early.

Staying proactive about health allows them to address any concerns promptly and manage their health better.

It’s not just about treating illnesses; it’s about maintaining overall wellness.

Remember, your health is your wealth. Prioritizing regular health check-ups is a habit that can pay significant dividends in the long run.

Ultimately, it’s a lifestyle

The journey to staying healthy and happy in your 70s and beyond is deeply interwoven with the lifestyle choices we make.

One could argue that the cornerstone of this lifestyle is mindfulness, the art of experiencing life in its true essence, moment by moment.

In my book The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment, I explore how embracing mindfulness can help you navigate life’s ups and downs and lead you towards a healthier and happier lifestyle.

The habits we’ve discussed here – from daily physical movement to regular health check-ups – are not isolated actions.

They are interlinked elements of a mindful lifestyle that values self-care, positivity, and personal growth.

Adopting these habits doesn’t guarantee perfect health or eternal happiness.

But they do pave the way for a more fulfilling journey through life, allowing you to age with grace, vitality, and a deeper sense of contentment.

Remember, aging isn’t just about adding years to your life; it’s about adding life to your years.

And these habits can help you do just that. The choice, ultimately, rests with you.