Growing old gracefully is more than just a saying; it’s a goal many of us aspire to. But how do some individuals manage to stay sharp, independent, and vibrant even into their 90s?
The answer lies in the habits they cultivate early on and maintain throughout their lives. Psychology points to seven specific habits that can contribute to this kind of longevity.
In this article, we’ll delve into these seven habits and why they’re crucial for anyone aiming for a lively and independent golden age. Ready to learn what it takes to stay sharp even when you hit 90? Let’s dive in.
1) Lifelong learners
Have you ever noticed how some elderly individuals seem just as sharp as they were in their youth? Psychology attributes this to a lifelong commitment to learning.
It’s not just about formal education. These nonagenarians engage in continual learning in various forms, from reading and solving puzzles to keeping up with current affairs and even learning new skills.
The beauty of learning is that it keeps the brain active, engaged, and challenged. It’s like a workout for your mind, helping to maintain mental agility even as you age.
So, if you aspire to be one of those sharp and independent individuals at 90, fostering a love for learning is crucial. Keep that curiosity alive, keep learning, and keep your mind active. The benefits will follow you well into old age.
2) Regular exercise
I’ve always been inspired by my grandfather’s commitment to regular exercise. Even at 92, he never misses his morning walk. Rain or shine, he’s out there, walking around the neighborhood with an energy that rivals individuals half his age.
Psychology supports this habit for maintaining physical and mental health. Regular physical activity keeps the body fit, sure, but it also helps keep the mind sharp. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and helps stimulate new brain cells.
So, taking a leaf from my grandfather’s book, I’ve made it a point to incorporate some form of exercise into my daily routine. It doesn’t have to be anything strenuous – a brisk walk, a bike ride, or even some gentle yoga can do wonders.
Remember, it’s not just about physical fitness. It’s about keeping your mind sharp and independent as you journey into your golden years.
3) Healthy diet
What we put into our bodies significantly impacts our physical and mental health. People who maintain their sharp minds and independence into their 90s often attribute their well-being to a consistent, balanced diet.
The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, has been associated with lower risks of cognitive decline. It’s a bounty of nutrients that nourishes the brain and body, promoting longevity and mental agility.
Choosing a diet rich in varied, nutrient-dense foods can be a game-changer for individuals aiming to stay sharp and independent as they age. It’s more than just sustaining the body; it’s about fueling the mind for the long haul.
4) Social engagement
Isolation can be a quick route to cognitive decline. People who stay sharp and independent into their golden years often prioritize staying socially engaged.
Whether it’s weekly gatherings with friends, regular family visits, volunteering, or participating in community groups, they understand the value of interpersonal connections. These social interactions stimulate our minds, keep us involved in the world around us, and can even help ward off feelings of loneliness and depression.
So, make time for people. Nurture your relationships. The benefits of active social life go beyond mere companionship; they contribute to a sharper mind and a more independent life as you age.
5) Mindfulness practice
I’ll admit, it took me a while to understand the power of mindfulness. But once I gave it a try, the change was remarkable. I became more aware of my thoughts, and this awareness enabled me to control my responses better, which improved my mental well-being significantly.
People who stay sharp and independent into their 90s often have some form of mindfulness practice in their routine. It could be meditation, yoga, or simply a few moments of stillness each day. This practice helps them stay present and connected with their experiences, reducing stress and promoting mental clarity.
So, whether it’s a five-minute meditation or a quiet walk in the park, make room for some mindfulness practice in your daily routine. The mental clarity it promotes can help maintain your independence and cognitive sharpness as you age.
6) Adequate sleep
Sleep is essential for our overall well-being, and this doesn’t change as we age. Those who remain sharp and independent into their 90s often prioritize good sleep hygiene.
Adequate sleep allows our brains to rest and rejuvenate, facilitating memory consolidation and promoting overall cognitive health. It’s during sleep that our brains get to ‘clean house’, removing toxins and waste products that accumulate during the day.
So, make sure you’re getting enough quality sleep each night. It’s more than just rest; it’s about giving your brain the downtime it needs to function optimally, contributing to your mental sharpness and independence as you age.
7) Positive outlook
The power of a positive mindset cannot be underestimated, especially when it comes to aging. People who remain sharp and independent into their 90s often attribute their resilience to maintaining a positive outlook on life.
This doesn’t mean they ignore life’s challenges or hardships. Instead, they choose to focus on the positives, maintaining an attitude of gratitude and looking for the silver lining in every situation. This optimism helps them navigate life’s ups and downs, promoting mental resilience and overall well-being.
So, cultivate that positive outlook. It’s more than just seeing the glass half full; it’s about building the mental resilience that will carry you through your golden years with grace, independence, and a sharp mind.
