7 habits of people who remain mentally sharp well into their 70s, according to science

Farley Ledgerwood by Farley Ledgerwood | January 12, 2025, 11:36 pm

Maintaining mental sharpness as you age isn’t just a matter of luck—it’s often the result of consistent habits that support cognitive health.

Science has identified specific behaviors that can help preserve memory, focus, and problem-solving abilities well into your later years.

In this article, we’ll uncover seven habits practiced by people who remain mentally sharp well into their 70s, offering inspiration to cultivate a sharper, healthier mind at any age:

1) Mental workouts

Who says workouts are just for the body?

Turns out, your brain needs its exercise too.

Just like how physical workouts keep our bodies fit, mental workouts can help our brains stay sharp and agile.

This can be as simple as solving puzzles, doing crosswords or even learning a new language.

According to research, individuals who regularly engage in mentally stimulating activities have a lower risk of cognitive decline as they age.

That’s why you’ll often find people who are mentally sharp well into their 70s, always keeping their minds active.

And no, you don’t need to be a grandmaster chess player or a mathematical genius to keep your mind working.

Even simple daily challenges can go a long way in ensuring mental fitness.

2) Healthy eating

I can’t stress enough how big of a role diet plays in maintaining mental sharpness.

Ever heard of the saying, “You are what you eat”?

Well, it’s more accurate than you might think.

Years ago, I found myself often feeling sluggish and having a hard time focusing.

I was constantly forgetting things and my productivity was at an all-time low.

Then, I decided to make a change.

I started paying attention to what I was putting into my body and made a conscious effort to eat healthier—lots of fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains.

The change was unbelievable.

Not only did I feel physically better, but my mental clarity improved significantly.

I was more focused, my memory improved, and I felt more energized.

If you’re looking for a simple way to keep your mind sharp well into your golden years, you might want to start in the kitchen.

3) Regular physical activity

You might be wondering what physical exercise has to do with mental sharpness.

Quite a lot, as it turns out.

Engaging in regular physical activity doesn’t just keep your body in shape, it also has a profound effect on your brain health.

When you exercise, your heart rate increases, which pumps more oxygen to your brain and aids the release of hormones, all of which assist in the growth of brain cells.

A study published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity found that adults over 60 who engaged in regular physical activity had better cognitive performance compared to those who were sedentary.

The next time you’re considering skipping that workout, remember—you’d be doing your brain a favor by breaking a sweat!

4) Adequate sleep

A good night’s sleep is like a mini detox for your brain.

Sleep is not just about resting your body, it’s also about giving your brain the downtime it needs to process information, form memories and regenerate its cells.

People who consistently get a good night’s sleep have been found to have higher cognitive function and mental sharpness.

Moreover, prolonged sleep deprivation has been linked to various cognitive impairments and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Make sure you’re getting your 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night.

5) Staying socially engaged

I’ve always been somewhat of an introvert, more comfortable in my own company than in a crowd.

But over the years, I’ve realized the value of maintaining strong social connections.

Building and maintaining relationships, interacting with others, and participating in group activities can all contribute to sustaining mental sharpness.

These social interactions stimulate our brains in ways that solitary activities can’t.

It’s like a workout for your brain, keeping it active and alert.

While it’s not always easy for me to step out of my comfort zone and engage socially, I’ve found that making the effort not only enriches my life but also keeps my mind sharp.

And hey, it’s never too late to make new friends!

6) Regular check-ups

Prevention is better than cure, and that applies to brain health too.

Regular health check-ups can help you catch any potential issues early, which can make a big difference when it comes to maintaining mental sharpness.

This includes regular screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels, as well as regular eye and hearing tests.

Why? Because conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and sensory impairments can all impact cognitive health if left untreated.

7) Lifelong learning

The desire to learn doesn’t have to fade as we age.

In fact, lifelong learning is one of the most effective strategies for maintaining mental sharpness.

Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, studying a new language, or just exploring a subject you’re passionate about, continuous learning stimulates the brain, enhances memory, and improves overall cognitive function.

Make it a point to learn something new every day.

The more you use your brain, the better it gets!

Final thoughts: It’s about lifestyle

The secret to maintaining mental sharpness well into your 70s and beyond is not rooted in a magic potion or a single golden rule.

It’s embedded in the fabric of your everyday life.

It’s about adopting healthy habits and making small, consistent changes in your daily routine—stimulating your brain, nourishing your body, and nurturing your relationships.

Whether you’re in your 20s, 40s, or 60s, it’s never too early or too late to start implementing these habits.

The choices you make today can pave the way for a future of mental clarity and cognitive longevity.

Remember, aging is inevitable but how we age is largely in our hands.

Here’s to a future of staying mentally sharp, no matter the number of candles on our birthday cake!

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