I’ve always believed that age is just a number—a cliché, perhaps, but one that rings true every time I go for a stroll in the park with my grandchildren and my dog, Lottie.

I see folks of all ages out there walking, laughing, and living with gusto. But occasionally, I’ll spot someone well into their 70s or even 80s who moves with this undeniable spark. They’re the ones who make me think, “That’s the kind of aging I hope to achieve.”

Over the years, I’ve noticed several common traits among these truly vibrant older adults—eight, specifically—that set them apart. If you’re north of 70 and doing these eight things, you’re aging better than most people ever will.

1. Stay physically active

It might sound obvious, but staying physically active is often overlooked once we pass a certain age.

Sure, we all slow down at some point, but continuing to move—even if it’s just a brisk walk or a gentle swim—can make a world of difference. I regularly walk with Lottie (she insists on it, to be fair), and those walks help keep me feeling limber.

I came across a study that found consistent exercise, even something as simple as strolling around the block daily, helps maintain cardiovascular health, flexibility, and overall energy levels in older adults.

There’s also an emotional perk to light exercise: it lifts your spirits. Whenever I come back from a long walk, I feel more alert and optimistic.

If you’re 70-plus and still lacing up your sneakers most mornings, give yourself a well-earned pat on the back. You’re not just staying in shape; you’re actively investing in a more fulfilling and independent lifestyle.

2. Keep nurturing friendships

One of the biggest joys in my own life is the friendships I’ve formed over the years. Some are decades old, while others were made just last year.

But here’s the thing: as we get older, it’s easy to let friendships fade. We get set in our routines, and before we know it, reaching out feels like a chore rather than a pleasure.

However, maintaining those social connections is key to aging well. As Winston Churchill famously said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

Giving your time and companionship to friends is one of the best ways to keep your own sense of purpose and belonging.

I’ve seen firsthand that people in their 70s who still prioritize get-togethers—be it coffee dates, church gatherings, or lunch outings—are often happier and less stressed.

When we open ourselves up to a good conversation and some laughter, we help keep loneliness at bay. So if you’re over 70 and still hanging out with friends or calling them just to say hello, you’re already one step ahead.

3. Embrace lifelong learning

I’ve mentioned this in a previous post, but I strongly believe in the power of lifelong learning. It’s never too late to pick up a new hobby or delve into a subject you’ve always been curious about.

One of my neighbors, who’s 72, decided to learn Spanish during the lockdowns. Now, he’s conversing with native speakers online, and you should see the twinkle in his eye when he talks about his progress.

Learning something new—be it painting, playing a musical instrument, or even how to use the latest smartphone app—doesn’t just sharpen your mind. It also reignites that childlike spark of curiosity and excitement.

Albert Einstein once noted, “Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.” If you’re in your 70s and still cracking open new books, enrolling in local classes, or watching YouTube tutorials on topics you find intriguing, trust me—you’re aging more gracefully than many folks half your age.

4. Maintain a sense of humor

Humor is one of those underrated treasures that can lighten even the heaviest moments.

I remember my grandfather used to crack jokes about his “rusty joints” whenever he tried to stand up from his armchair, and we’d all laugh. It didn’t make his arthritis vanish, but it made it more bearable.

A good laugh can lower stress hormones, improve your mood, and even boost your immune system. If you’re over 70 and still finding reasons to chuckle—whether it’s at corny puns, your grandchildren’s antics, or your own quirks—you’re doing yourself a huge favor health-wise.

Embracing humor also helps you connect with others. A shared joke or story goes a long way in bridging generational gaps. The folks who hold onto their laughter remain approachable, open-minded, and ready to engage with the world around them.

5. Take on new challenges

Let’s face it: stepping out of our comfort zone gets trickier as we age. We’re more set in our ways, and it can be tempting to stick to what’s familiar.

But if you’re over 70 and you still enjoy taking on new challenges—maybe volunteering in a new role, helping organize local community events, or starting a fresh home improvement project—you’re showcasing a growth mindset that keeps you young at heart.

“Continuous effort—not strength or intelligence—is the key to unlocking our potential,” wrote Winston Churchill. And I couldn’t agree more (yes, I’m a big Churchill fan).

Even small challenges like rearranging the garden, learning to video call your grandkids, or trying a new recipe keep your brain active and your spirits high.

Sure, new challenges come with a bit of uncertainty, and sometimes you may fail or struggle. But if you press on despite the hiccups, you’ll stay sharp and independent, surprising folks who think being in your 70s or beyond is all about slowing down.

Spoiler alert: it doesn’t have to be.

6. Foster a positive mindset

Positivity doesn’t mean ignoring the aches, pains, and other realities of aging. Instead, it’s about focusing on what’s going right.

There’s a stoic principle that advises us to acknowledge what we can’t control while channeling our energy into what we can. I’ve found that a healthy dose of optimism goes a long way.

Look, I’m no know-it-all, but it seems to me that the most resilient older adults are the ones who greet each morning thinking, “What do I get to do today?” rather than, “What do I have to do?”

If you’re over 70 and still looking on the bright side—even amidst life’s occasional curveballs—you’re doing the kind of mental work that keeps your heart young and your stress levels in check.

Positivity also rubs off on everyone else. Your children, grandchildren, neighbors, and even the cashier at your local grocery store will sense that upbeat energy. It fosters stronger connections and encourages others to treat you with the same warmth.

7. Stay engaged with technology

I know technology can feel overwhelming. I remember stumbling through the setup of my first smartphone, and let’s just say I needed plenty of help from my grandkids.

But here’s the thing: staying connected in a digital world can dramatically improve your quality of life.

Video calls with faraway family, online tutorials that teach you new skills, and even social media groups can bring a sense of community—particularly if you’re more homebound these days.

When older adults adapt to technology, they’re not just “keeping up with the times”; they’re also discovering convenient ways to maintain friendships, follow their passions, and maybe even order groceries when mobility is an issue.

If you’re in your 70s and still enthusiastic about learning how to text, email, or post a photo for your friends, you’re far ahead of the curve. Staying digitally engaged is one of the clearest signs that your mind is still flexible, open, and ready for life’s changes.

8. Nourish your emotional well-being

Last but certainly not least: looking after your emotional health. As we get older, it’s easy to focus solely on physical issues—doctors’ appointments, medications, and so on.

But your emotional well-being matters just as much. I’ve witnessed that older folks who continue to invest in their mental and emotional health have a certain contentment about them that’s hard to miss.

How do you do this? It varies. Some find solace in faith or spirituality, others in journaling, meditation, or simply chatting regularly with a close friend. Some pick up creative outlets like painting, gardening, or playing an instrument.

If you recognize that your emotional health needs some TLC and you’re actually doing something about it—like reading a good self-help book, practicing mindfulness, or seeking professional support—you’re handling the aging process with remarkable grace.

Brené Brown, a researcher I deeply admire, once said, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.”

It’s not always easy to open up and say, “I’m feeling down today” or “I could use some company,” but doing so strengthens your emotional reserves. And that’s exactly the kind of resilience that leads to truly successful aging.

A parting thought

There you have it: eight habits that I’ve observed in folks who seem to defy the usual limitations of age. Whether it’s keeping physically active, embracing new technology, or staying connected with friends, these aren’t just random pastimes—they’re keys to a rich, fulfilling later life.

If you’re checking off most or all of these boxes, congratulations. You’re aging better than most people ever will, and I find that inspiring. And if you’re not yet 70, maybe this is a road map of sorts—things to look forward to and incorporate as you get older.

I’ll leave you with this question: which of these eight habits can you strengthen right now to ensure your later years are the best they can be?

I can’t wait to see how we all continue to grow—no matter what number candles are on our birthday cakes.