People who remain energetic and joyful in their 70s and beyond tend to have these 9 habits in common

1) Embracing positivity

There’s a lot to be said about the power of a positive mindset, especially as we age.

People who remain energetic and joyful in their 70s and beyond have this uncanny ability to see the brighter side of life, no matter what comes their way.

They don’t deny the challenges of aging. Instead, they choose to focus on the joys and privileges that come with it:

• The wisdom
• The experiences
• The memories

And this isn’t just a game of pretend. They genuinely believe in the goodness of life and its many blessings.

They perceive every day as a gift, not a given.

It’s this positive outlook that fuels their energy and joy.

It gives them the resilience to overcome adversity and the passion to seize every opportunity.

2) Staying active

I’ve always admired my Grandma’s energy. Even in her late 70s, she’s more active than most people half her age.

Every morning, come rain or shine, she’s out in her garden, tending to her roses and vegetables.

It’s a routine she’s maintained for decades.

And it’s not just about the physical exercise. For her, it’s a form of meditation, a way to connect with nature and start her day on a positive note.

On days when the weather doesn’t permit outdoor activities, she turns to her indoor exercise regimen.

A mix of stretching exercises and simple yoga poses that keep her flexible and agile.

In addition, she keeps her mind sharp, too. She loves:

• Reading
• Solving crossword puzzles
• Dabbling in painting

Her secret? Staying active isn’t a chore for her. It’s something she loves. She says it makes her feel alive and connected to the world around her.

From what I’ve observed over the years, it’s clear to me that this habit of staying active is one of the key reasons behind my Grandma’s abundant energy and joy at this stage of life.

3) Eating a balanced diet

People who remain energetic and joyful in their 70s and beyond usually pay careful attention to what they eat.

They understand that what they put into their bodies directly impacts how they feel and function.

They tend to favor a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and healthy fats.

They limit processed foods, opting for natural and nutrient-dense options instead.

Here’s something to chew on: A study published in the American Journal of Medicine found that a diet rich in certain foods like fruits, vegetables, and fish was associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality in older adults.

4) Prioritizing sleep

Sleep is often overlooked as we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life.

But sleep is non-negotiable for those who remain energetic and joyful well into their 70s and beyond.

They understand the restorative power of a good night’s sleep. They know that it’s during these quiet, restful hours that their bodies:

• Rejuvenate
• Repair
• Prepare for the new day

These lively seniors ensure that they get adequate sleep every night.

They stick to a regular sleep schedule, create a peaceful sleep environment, and follow a calming nighttime routine.

They don’t just sleep; they prioritize quality sleep. And this habit significantly contributes to their energy levels and overall wellbeing.

5) Cultivating strong relationships

These individuals understand the importance of human connection.

They nurture their relationships with family and friends. They prioritize:

• Making time for meaningful conversations,
• Sharing experiences
• Giving mutual support.

They’re not just social butterflies. They know the value of deep, genuine connections and make an effort to cultivate them.

Thanks to these relationships, they find:

• A sense of belonging
• Emotional support
• A reservoir of joy and energy

It’s a habit that nourishes their soul and adds vibrancy to their lives.

6) Embracing lifelong learning

Life is a never-ending journey of learning, and those who remain energetic and joyful in their 70s and beyond know this better than anyone.

They don’t see aging as a decline but as an opportunity to learn and grow.

They’re always curious, always open to new experiences, and never shy away from stepping out of their comfort zones.

For them, every day unfolds a new lesson, a new adventure. They:

• Read
• Travel
• Explore new hobbies
• Ask questions.

This habit of lifelong learning keeps them mentally agile, emotionally fulfilled, and spiritually enriched.

It keeps their hearts young and their minds sharp, adding a sparkle to their golden years.

7) Practicing gratitude

I remember a particularly tough day when I was feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life was throwing my way.

That’s when a dear friend shared her secret to staying joyful and energetic at the age of 75.

She told me about her daily ritual of gratitude.

Every night, before going to bed, she would write down three things she was grateful for that day.

It could be as simple as a delicious meal, a warm conversation with a friend, or even the beauty of a sunset.

Initially, I was skeptical. But seeing her undeniable joy and zest for life convinced me to give it a try. The change it brought about was remarkable.

This small act of acknowledging the good in life shifted my focus from my problems to my blessings. It filled me with:

• Positivity
• Energy
• A sense of contentment

8) Staying in tune with nature

Nature has a profound way of energizing our spirits and soothing our souls. 

Energetic seniors make it a point to spend time in nature, appreciating its beauty and basking in its tranquility. Habitually, they:

• Take walks in the park
• Garden in their backyards
• Simply enjoy a cup of tea on their porch while watching the birds

This connection with nature provides them with a sense of peace and calm. It rejuvenates their spirits, fills them with inspiration, and reinforces their love for life.

9) Nurturing a sense of purpose

A sense of purpose acts as a compass guiding us through life.

It gives us a reason to get up in the morning, fuels our passion, and adds meaning to our days.

Regardless of their age, these people still:

• Have passions they pursue
• Goals they strive for
• Dreams they wish to fulfill

Whether volunteering at the local community center, writing a memoir, or simply being the best grandparent they can be; they have a reason that drives them forward.

This sense of purpose keeps them motivated, engaged, and excited about life. 

Final thoughts: It’s a lifestyle, not a checklist

As we’ve explored, staying energetic and joyful in your 70s and beyond isn’t just about luck—it’s about cultivating habits that nourish your body, mind, and spirit.

Whether it’s staying active, maintaining a positive mindset, or nurturing meaningful connections, these nine habits are powerful tools for living a vibrant life at any age.

By embracing these practices, you can set the stage for a future filled with energy, joy, and a zest for life that only grows stronger with time.

Remember, the choices you make today are the building blocks for the quality of life you’ll enjoy tomorrow.

So why not start now? Your future self will thank you!