People who stay fun and playful well into their senior years usually adopt these 10 daily habits

Farley Ledgerwood by Farley Ledgerwood | June 18, 2024, 2:14 pm

Getting older doesn’t have to mean losing your passion for life.

There’s a huge difference between those who age begrudgingly and those who fully embrace their golden years with a playful and fun attitude.

And a lot of that comes down to daily habits.

Those who stay vibrant and joyful well into their senior years often have routines that keep them feeling young and lively.

In this article, I’ll share 10 daily habits that can help you maintain that playful spirit as you age. While I can’t promise you the fountain of youth, I can offer a roadmap to a more vibrant life.

1) Embrace laughter

Laughter holds incredible power.

You’ll often notice the most playful seniors laughing at every chance they get. They know that laughter isn’t just good for your health; it’s also key to staying young at heart.

Studies show that laughter offers various health perks, from boosting your immune system to easing stress. But beyond that, it keeps you connected to your inner child.

Their secret? It’s pretty straightforward. They make laughter a part of their daily routine. Whether it’s cracking jokes with friends, tuning into a comedy show, or simply finding humor in everyday situations, they weave laughter into their lives effortlessly.

2) Keep moving

I’ve always noticed something special about the most spirited seniors in my life—they never seem to sit still!

Take my grandmother, for instance. She’s in her late 80s and still the most vibrant person I know. Her day kicks off with a brisk morning walk, followed by afternoons spent tending to her garden, and she even joins dance classes at her local community center.

She once shared with me, “Movement is life. The moment you stop moving, you start aging.” And she’s living proof of that mantra.

Staying active doesn’t necessarily mean hitting the gym or running marathons. Any form of physical activity, no matter how small, contributes to your overall health and happiness.

Hence, find something that brings you joy—whether it’s dancing, gardening, or simply strolling around the neighborhood—and make it a part of your daily routine.  

3) Practice lifelong learning

Did you know that the brain continues to generate new cells throughout life? Lifelong learning isn’t just about keeping your mind sharp—it’s also a key strategy for staying youthful and playful.

Maintaining a curious spirit and a love for learning can make your senior years more engaging and entertaining. People who embrace new information, skills, or hobbies tend to stay mentally sharp and full of energy.

By regularly challenging your mind, you not only expand your knowledge but also reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Whether it’s learning a new language, mastering a musical instrument, or exploring new books, make learning something new a daily habit.

Keep in mind, you’re never too old to learn. And the more you learn, the more playful and vibrant your life becomes!

4) Stay social

Human beings are inherently social creatures. We thrive on connections and positive interactions with others.

Now, being social isn’t just about maintaining relationships. It’s also about staying engaged with the world around you.

This could mean joining clubs, volunteering, participating in community activities, or simply conversing with your neighbors from time to time.

Staying socially active can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation that sometimes accompany aging. It can also keep you mentally stimulated, give you a sense of purpose, and inject some fun into your daily life.

5) Cultivate positivity

Your mindset has a significant impact on how you age. That’s why the most playful and vibrant seniors often have the most positive outlook on life.

They actively choose to focus on the positives. Instead of dwelling on the downsides, they celebrate every little win and find beauty in the mundane.

This habit of embracing positivity isn’t just about being fun to be around. It’s a powerhouse for their well-being, slashing stress and fortifying them against life’s curveballs.

Hence, make it your mission to cultivate positivity. Start each day with gratitude and a positive attitude, and watch as joy and playfulness become your constant companions.

6) Cherish loved ones

The love and support of family and friends have a magical way of keeping our spirits youthful and playful.

The happiest seniors I’ve met are the ones who treasure their relationships. They recognize the importance of love and companionship and prioritize nurturing those connections each day.

Whether it’s enjoying quality moments with grandchildren, maintaining a strong bond with their partners, or catching up with lifelong friends, they invest their hearts and energy into their relationships.

This practice not only offers them emotional sustenance but also fills their lives with joy, laughter, and a deep sense of belonging.

7) Embrace change

When the familiar starts to shift, it’s easy to feel unsettled and retreat into what’s comfortable. But the seniors who truly inspire me are those who welcome change with open arms.

They understand that change is just a natural part of life. Instead of resisting it, they adapt and make the most of every new chapter. For them, it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and experience something different.

This adaptability helps them stay vibrant and fully engaged with life, no matter what comes their way.

So, don’t shy away from change. Embrace it. Sure, it might be tough at first, but it can lead to unexpected joys and keep your spirit forever youthful and playful.

8) Cultivate solitude

While staying social is important, there’s also something special about embracing moments of solitude.

It’s not about isolating yourself—it’s about taking time for self-care and introspection. It’s about enjoying the quiet moments and finding joy in your own company.

Everyday, make it a point to spend some time alone. Whether you’re reading a book, meditating, or simply sitting in silence, you’ll find that these moments of solitude can bring clarity, peace, and even a sense of playfulness to your life.

9) Stay curious

Curiosity fuels the spirit of playfulness.

People who remain youthful and playful into their senior years are often those who never lose their sense of curiosity. They’re always asking questions, exploring new ideas, and seeking new experiences.

This habit keeps them engaged with the world, constantly learning and growing. It also sparks their creativity and imagination, two key ingredients for a playful spirit.

So stay curious. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, try new things, and step out of your comfort zone. You’ll find that the world is full of surprises and that every day brings something new to discover.

10) Live in the moment

The key to staying fun and playful well into your senior years? Living fully and completely in the present moment.

People who keep their youthful spirit alive understand that life is happening right now. They don’t dwell on the past or worry about the future. Instead, they focus on enjoying and appreciating the here and now.

This habit allows them to find joy in the simplest things and makes every day an adventure. It keeps them engaged with life, vibrant, and most importantly, playful.

Final reflection: It’s a choice

Our approach to aging often comes down to mindset more than just the passing years.

The seniors who stay lively and playful as they age have made a conscious decision. They’ve chosen to approach life with laughter, curiosity, and a spirit of adventure that never fades.

For them, growing older doesn’t mean giving up on play or exploration. Instead, it’s a chance to keep learning, evolving, and finding joy in the everyday.

Sure, they face challenges, but they tackle them head-on, armed with resilience and a positive outlook.

In essence, they’ve opted not just to grow old, but to grow whole.

Think about it: Aging is inevitable, but how we age is entirely up to us. It’s a choice we make every day through our actions and attitudes.