Between the ages of 65 and 80, life is often expected to slow down, but more older adults are proving that age is just a number. While health statistics and retirement rules may loom large, they don’t define how someone lives in their later years. In fact, many adults in this age group are staying active, curious, and deeply involved in their communities. If you’re still doing the following nine things, you’re not just “doing well for your age”—you’re part of a growing movement reshaping how later life is perceived.
1) Embracing Change Instead of Holding On to the Past
As we age, it’s easy to stick to what’s familiar, but many older adults actively say yes to change. Whether it’s trying new technology, adopting different social norms, or exploring new cuisines, staying curious keeps your mind sharp. UCLA research shows that “specific curiosity,” the desire to understand something unfamiliar, actually increases in later life. Those who embrace this curiosity are better at adapting to loss, health changes, and maintain a greater sense of control over their lives. Staying open to change allows you to move beyond nostalgia and stay mentally active, making it easier to cope with life’s transitions.
2) Staying Physically Active, Even When Alone
Contrary to the common stereotype of retirement spent in front of the TV, the healthiest older adults prioritize regular physical activity. Whether it’s walking, gardening, or light strength training, staying active helps keep joints mobile, blood pressure stable, and minds sharper. Research published in *GeroScience* has shown that strength training even reduces dementia risk in older adults. Being physically active at 70 doesn’t mean running marathons; it simply means choosing movement over inertia. Activities like a brisk walk, strength exercises, and balance classes can make a significant difference in your health and mobility.
3) Continuously Learning and Growing
Learning new things in your later years is a hallmark of a “rare gem.” Whether it’s learning a new language, picking up a musical instrument, or exploring a new craft, the brain’s ability to form new connections doesn’t stop as we age. Neuroplasticity, the brain’s capacity for change, ensures that the act of learning enhances memory, focus, and gives a sense of purpose. Those who keep learning feel more adaptable and maintain greater independence, managing technology and new ideas with ease. Refusing to coast through life and instead staying engaged mentally fosters resilience and well-being.
How These Habits Work Together
Each of these habits enhances the others. Staying socially active, for example, often encourages physical activity, while learning keeps you adaptable to new situations. The more you practice these behaviors, the more they reinforce one another. A simple change, like attending an exercise class or joining a new group, could lead to new friendships, greater confidence, and improved overall health. These cumulative effects show how small, consistent actions have a powerful impact on long-term well-being.
