What’s the secret to staying vibrant and fulfilled in your 70s and beyond?

It turns out, it’s not just about eating right or exercising. Research consistently shows that maintaining strong social connections can play an even more critical role in aging well.

In fact, studies show that older adults with robust social ties were 50% more likely to report high levels of life satisfaction.

But how do they do it?

From prioritizing friendships to embracing community involvement, these eight habits stand out as essential practices for fostering meaningful relationships in later years

1) Embrace technology

Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?

In the digital age, staying socially connected often means embracing technology. This doesn’t have to be daunting or overwhelming, and it’s not just for the younger crowd.

Many people in their 70s and beyond are learning to navigate social media platforms, video call apps, and even online gaming communities. These tools offer a multitude of ways to stay in touch with family and friends, meet new people, and keep the mind active.

Think about it. A quick game of online chess with a friend across the globe or a catch-up call with family on a video chat app can do wonders for your social health.

And remember, you don’t have to become a tech wizard overnight. Start small and pick up new skills gradually. There are plenty of resources available to help, from online tutorials to classes at your local community center.

By embracing technology, older adults are proving that age is just a number when it comes to staying socially connected.

2) Regular exercise

You might be wondering, “What does exercise have to do with maintaining social connections?” Well, from my personal experience, quite a lot.

A few years ago, my grandmother, then in her late 70s, started attending a local water aerobics class. Initially, she joined for the physical benefits, but it quickly turned into much more than that.

Not only did she enjoy the exercise, but she also started forming friendships with her fellow classmates. They would chat before and after class. They would cheer each other on during tough routines. Soon, these connections expanded beyond the poolside.

She began meeting these friends for coffee after class, going to events together, and even traveling on group trips. The physical activity was great for her health, but the social engagement was just as beneficial – if not more so.

So from my personal observation, regular exercise – especially in group settings – can be a powerful way to foster and maintain social connections as we age.

3) Lifelong learning

Who said that school is only for kids? The trend of lifelong learning is more prevalent than you might think among people maintaining strong social connections in their later years.

Learning something new doesn’t just keep the mind sharp. It also opens up opportunities to interact with others who share similar interests.

For instance, joining a book club not only encourages reading but also stimulates lively discussions and builds relationships. Participating in a cooking class not just enhances culinary skills but also promotes teamwork and collaboration.

And here’s something to ponder: Studies have found that individuals who engage in continuous learning and curiosity are more likely to live longer lives.

Now, isn’t that a good reason to pick up a new hobby or skill?

4) Volunteering

There’s something special about giving back to the community. It offers a sense of purpose, fosters empathy, and creates an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals.

Many seniors actively involve themselves in volunteering activities. Whether it’s helping at a local food bank, mentoring younger generations, or fostering abandoned pets – these acts of kindness not only contribute to society but also help in building and maintaining strong social connections.

What’s more, volunteering can also provide a sense of structure and routine. Especially in the retirement years, having regular commitments can create a positive rhythm to the week.

So, if you’re looking for ways to stay socially connected while making a difference, volunteering could be a great path to explore.

5) Maintaining traditions

There’s a certain comfort and warmth in traditions. They link us to our past, anchor us in the present, and provide continuity for the future.

For many people in their 70s and beyond, maintaining traditions plays a vital role in keeping social connections strong. These could be as simple as a weekly family dinner, an annual summer barbecue with friends, or a regular catch-up call with a distant relative.

These traditions are more than just events on a calendar. They’re moments of connection, laughter, shared memories, and love. They remind us of who we are, where we come from, and the bonds that hold us together.

In an ever-changing world, these consistent touchpoints can provide a sense of stability and belonging.

The bottom line is, old onto your traditions. They’re not just habits; they’re threads that weave the fabric of our social lives.

6) Active listening

In a world that’s always in a rush, taking the time to truly listen can be a rare gift. And it’s a gift that people who maintain strong social connections in their 70s and beyond often give generously.

Active listening is not just about hearing the words someone is saying. It’s about being present, showing empathy, and understanding the feelings behind those words.

I remember a time when I was going through a tough phase, and it was my grandfather who really listened.

He didn’t offer advice or try to fix things; he simply listened, showing genuine interest and concern. It made me feel seen and appreciated.

The power of active listening in maintaining and building strong social connections cannot be underestimated. Whether it’s with family, friends, or new acquaintances, taking the time to listen can create deep and meaningful connections.

7) Staying positive

Life is full of ups and downs. It’s easy to dwell on the negatives, but those who maintain strong social connections in their 70s and beyond often cultivate a positive mindset.

Staying positive doesn’t mean ignoring life’s challenges. It means facing them head-on, acknowledging the difficulties, but also looking for the silver lining and focusing on the good in every situation.

This positivity can be contagious and has a way of drawing others in. After all, who wouldn’t want to spend time with someone who exudes optimism and joy?

If you’re aiming to keep your social connections strong as you age, nurturing a positive outlook could be one of your most powerful tools.

8) Be yourself

In the end, the most powerful habit for maintaining strong social connections, no matter your age, is authenticity.

Being yourself—embracing your strengths, acknowledging your weaknesses, and being comfortable in your own skin—draws people to you. Authenticity fosters trust and deepens relationships.

So, don’t try to fit into a mold or pretend to be someone you’re not.

Celebrate your uniqueness and let it shine. This genuine self-expression is what makes you memorable and keeps your social connections strong and meaningful.

Embracing the golden years

The beauty of age is not merely in the number of years lived, but in the richness of experiences gained and relationships nurtured.

While our bodies age, our capacity for connection does not have to diminish. In fact, maintaining strong social connections in our 70s and beyond may not just be a matter of choice but a determinant of our health and happiness.

The Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest studies on aging, revealed that close relationships, more than money or fame, are what keep people happy throughout their lives. These relationships protect us from life’s discontents, help to delay mental and physical decline, and are better predictors of long and happy lives than social class, IQ, or even genes.

So as we navigate through this journey of life, adopting these habits can keep us socially connected and emotionally enriched. From embracing technology to staying positive, every choice shapes our social landscape.

In the end, it’s not just about living longer but living a life brimming with meaningful connections and shared experiences. Because after all, we are, as poet John Donne wrote, “No man is an island.”