People who stay mentally fit in their 70s and beyond usually adopt these 7 unique habits

Have you ever wondered why some folks in their 70s and beyond seem to have the mental agility of someone half their age?

Well, it’s not just good genes or pure luck.

There’s a common thread that ties these mentally sharp seniors together: they all have certain habits they hold dear.

Let’s debunk the notion that advancing age automatically results in diminished mental fitness. It doesn’t have to be that way.

Intrigued?

If you’re thinking, “I want to be like that when I grow old,” then you’re in the right place. Join me as we explore 7 unique habits adopted by those who remain mentally fit well into their 70s and beyond.

So, are you ready to dive in? 

1) They never stop learning

Here’s the first habit you might find surprising: They’re lifelong learners.

These mentally agile seniors don’t consider education to be confined to their school or college years. Instead, they view it as a lifelong journey.

Whether it’s picking up a new language, learning a musical instrument, or even mastering a tricky recipe, they’re always up for a challenge.

And science backs this up. Continuous learning not only keeps the mind active but also fosters neural plasticity, which helps in maintaining cognitive health.

2) They maintain a consistent exercise routine

Let me share a little about my grandfather, who was sharp as a tack into his late 80s.

One habit he swore by was his daily exercise routine. Rain or shine, you could find him taking a brisk walk every morning. He would often say, “A healthy body leads to a healthy mind.”

And he wasn’t wrong.

Research shows that physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and promotes the growth of new brain cells. This can help enhance memory and cognitive skills.

His dedication to staying active, despite his age, was truly inspiring. It made me realize that incorporating regular exercise into our daily routine is not just beneficial for our physical health but also plays a crucial role in maintaining mental fitness.

3) They embrace change

Change. A word that can instill fear in the best of us, especially as we get older. But here’s the thing: Change is an inevitable part of life.

The seniors who stay mentally fit? They don’t resist change; they welcome it. They understand that with change comes growth, learning, and new experiences.

I’ll admit, I’ve struggled with this one. As a creature of habit, I preferred my comfort zone over the uncharted territory that came with change. But I’ve seen how being adaptable keeps the mind sharp and resilient.

So, while it may be tempting to stick to what’s familiar and safe, stepping outside your comfort zone could be the best thing you do for your mental fitness.

After all, it’s not about avoiding change but learning to navigate through it that keeps the mind agile and young.

4) They prioritize sleep

This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s a habit that often gets overlooked: A good night’s sleep.

Those who stay mentally sharp into their 70s and beyond understand the importance of quality shuteye. They ensure they get the recommended 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.

Sleep is when our body and mind rejuvenate. It’s when the brain processes and consolidates memories from the day. Skimping on it can lead to cognitive problems like forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating.

So, make sleep a priority.

Create a routine that promotes good sleep hygiene. Your mind will be clearer, sharper, and ready to tackle whatever the day throws at you.

5) They nourish their bodies with a healthy diet

You’ve probably heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” Well, this couldn’t be truer when it comes to mental fitness.

The seniors who stay mentally active make mindful choices about what they put on their plates. They opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

Here’s something you might not know: Certain foods like blueberries, turmeric, broccoli, pumpkin seeds, oranges, and eggs are known to boost brain health.

6) They maintain strong social connections

We’re social creatures by nature, and our mental health thrives on meaningful connections with others.

The mentally sharp seniors I know prioritize their relationships. They make time to connect with their family, friends, and even make new acquaintances.

Now, I understand that as we age, maintaining social connections can become challenging. Some friends may move away, loved ones may pass on, or health issues may limit our ability to socialize.

It’s not about the quantity of social interactions, but the quality. A heartfelt conversation with a dear friend or a loving phone call with a family member can do wonders for our mental fitness.

So, reach out to someone today. It’s not just good for your heart; it’s good for your mind too.

7) They practice mindfulness

Being present in the moment – it’s a simple concept, yet one that holds immense power.

Mentally fit seniors often have a mindfulness practice. This could be meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few minutes each day to focus on their breath.

Mindfulness helps reduce stress and anxiety, improves focus, and enhances cognitive function. It trains the brain to stay engaged and present, which is crucial for mental fitness.

So, give mindfulness a try. Even a few minutes each day can make a significant difference. Your mind will thank you for it.

The final thought

If you’ve made it this far, you’re likely committed to nurturing your mental fitness, no matter what age you are. That’s fantastic!

These habits aren’t just for those in their 70s and beyond. They can benefit anyone at any stage of life.

Take it one day at a time. You don’t have to adopt all these habits overnight. Start small. Pick one habit that resonates with you and work on incorporating that into your daily routine.

Perhaps you’ll start with prioritizing sleep or adding more brain-boosting foods to your diet. Or maybe you’ll begin a mindfulness practice or make a point to connect with a loved one each day.

Be patient with yourself. Change takes time, and progress may be slow. But every step you take in nurturing your mental fitness is a step in the right direction.

Staying mentally fit isn’t about being perfect; it’s about doing what’s best for YOU. So take this journey at your own pace and celebrate every victory along the way.

Your older self will surely thank you for it.