When we think about aging well, we often focus on things like staying active, eating right, or finding purpose.
But just as important as what we do are the things we stop doing.
By the time we reach our 60s and beyond, certain habits that may have seemed harmless earlier can actually hold us back from living our best life.
Today, we explore six habits to say goodbye to if you want to age with vitality and joy.
Ready for a fresh start? Let’s dive in.
1) Living in the past
Don’t get me wrong. There’s nothing wrong with reminiscing about the good old days. After all, your past has shaped you into who you are today.
But it’s important not to get stuck there.
Living in the past can prevent you from appreciating the present and planning for the future. It can keep you from exploring new opportunities and experiences that could enrich your life.
If you want to thrive after sixty, it’s time to look forward, not backward. Let go of any regrets or what-ifs. Embrace the present and keep an open mind about what lies ahead.
Every day is a new opportunity to learn, grow, and make new memories. And that’s something to look forward to, no matter how old you are.
2) Neglecting exercise
I get it. As we age, our bodies can’t quite keep up the way they used to. Activities that used to be a breeze can become a challenge.
I know this firsthand.
A few years back, I started noticing that climbing a flight of stairs left me winded. Simple walks around the block felt like a marathon. It was a wake-up call. I realized that if I wanted to be active and healthy for my grandkids, my lifestyle needed a change.
So, I started exercising regularly. Nothing too strenuous – just daily walks and some light yoga at home. The difference was astonishing! My energy levels increased, my mood improved, and those stairs? They aren’t the enemy anymore.
The point?
Exercise can make a huge difference in how we age. I’ve noticed the benefits personally, and they are widely backed up by experts. Perhaps, most notably, Dr. Linda Fried, dean of Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, has said:
“Exercise is the closest thing we’ve found to a magic pill for combating the effects of aging.”
It’s not about training for a marathon or becoming a gym rat. It’s about keeping your body moving and maintaining your health for as long as possible.
3) Ignoring preventive healthcare
It’s easy to adopt the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality when it comes to our health. But ignoring preventive healthcare can be detrimental, especially as we age.
Regular check-ups and screenings can catch potential health issues at an early stage, making them easier and less costly to treat. They also provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns or changes you may have noticed with your doctor.
Prevention is always better than cure. Make sure regular doctor visits and health screenings are part of your routine.
4) Neglecting self-care
When was the last time you truly prioritized you?
As we get older, it’s easy to let self-care slip to the bottom of the list.
Whether it’s because we’re too busy taking care of others or we just don’t see it as a priority, neglecting our own well-being can take a toll over time. But self-care is far from a luxury – it’s essential.
According to experts at Choosing Therapy, self-care has countless benefits, including lowering stress levels, improving sleep, and boosting happiness. Plus, taking care of yourself can also lead to better relationships and even a reduced risk of burnout.
Self-care doesn’t have to mean expensive spa days or lavish vacations. It can be as simple as setting aside a few minutes each day for quiet reflection, reading a good book, or even treating yourself to a walk in nature.
Whatever it is, make sure it brings you joy and recharges your spirit.
By making self-care a priority, you’re not just investing in yourself today – you’re setting the foundation for a healthier, more fulfilling future.
5) Avoiding social interaction
With age, it can be tempting to withdraw from social activities, whether due to changes in lifestyle, health challenges, or the simple comfort of routine.
However, doing so could be detrimental to both your happiness and longevity. The longest-ever study on happiness, conducted by Harvard researchers, found that our relationships are the strongest predictors of not only our happiness but also how long we live.
Staying socially connected, whether through friendships, family, or community activities, keeps the mind engaged, combats feelings of loneliness, and even supports better physical health.
Whether it’s a weekly call with a loved one or joining a local group, embracing social interaction is a key ingredient for thriving in the later years of life.
6) Not being open to learning
We’ve all heard the saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
In fact, maintaining a mindset of lifelong learning is crucial to thriving as we age. Research suggests that engaging in continuous learning can reduce the risk of developing dementia.
Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, learning a language, or even staying up-to-date with technology, keeping your brain active and challenged is key to staying sharp.
Embrace the idea that it’s never too late to learn something new. Not only will it stimulate your mind, but it can also open up opportunities for growth and connection.
Final thoughts: It’s about embracing change
Life is a continuous journey of evolution and growth. And with each decade comes a new set of challenges, experiences, and opportunities.
The habits we’ve discussed aren’t just about prolonging life but enhancing its quality. It’s about feeling good, staying healthy, and making the most of every moment.
So as you navigate this new chapter, take a moment to reflect. What habits are serving you? Which ones are holding you back?
It’s never too late to make changes that support your well-being and happiness.
