People who keep feeling young well into their 60s and beyond usually display these 7 specific habits

They say age is just a number, and for some, this couldn’t be more true.

We’ve all met those people who seem to defy the passage of time—not just in how they look, but in how they move, think, and embrace life. They radiate vitality and seem to carry a youthful spark, no matter how many candles are on their birthday cake.

What’s their secret? Genetics might play a role, but science and observation point to something seemingly just as powerful: their habits.

Today, we’ll explore seven specific habits these ageless individuals tend to share.

Let’s dive in.

1) They exercise

I know, I know—you’ve heard this one before. But that’s because it’s that important.

Dr. Linda Fried, dean of Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, even called exercise “the closest thing we’ve found to a magic pill for combating the effects of aging.” 

Think about that for a moment—a magic pill! And it’s free.

But don’t worry; this doesn’t mean you have to sign up for grueling marathon training or become a gym fanatic. 

It’s about finding what works for you, whether that’s walking, yoga, swimming, or even dancing. The goal is to move regularly, because staying active maintains muscle mass, supports joint health, and boosts mental clarity—all essential for feeling youthful.

Of course, as we get older, it becomes even more important to consult medical professionals before starting a new exercise regimen. Make sure you get the green light and tailor your activity to your abilities and needs. The right approach can make all the difference.

2) They stay curious and keep learning

Did you know that some experts believe lifelong learning may help prevent dementia?

But it’s not just about warding off disease. As sociologist Tracy Browner puts it, “Learning is a sure path to happiness.” 

And she’s right. There’s something inherently joyful about discovering something new, whether it’s learning a language, taking up a hobby, or diving into a topic you’ve always been curious about, right?

For many of us, our 60s and beyond come with a shift in lifestyle—retirement or at least the thought of it begins to loom. This period offers the perfect opportunity to embrace learning for its own sake. No grades, no deadlines, just the chance to pursue passions or explore interests you may have set aside earlier in life.

So, whether it’s a community class, online course, or just tackling that stack of books you’ve been meaning to read, staying curious and learning can be your ticket to a happier, sharper, and more fulfilling life.

3) They maintain social connections

When was the last time you had a heartfelt conversation with a friend or spent quality time with loved ones? 

If it’s been a while, you’re not alone. Life can get busy. 

However, those who seem to age gracefully and stay vibrant make their relationships a priority and for good reason. The famous Harvard Study of Adult Development—a landmark 80-year study—found that strong social connections are one of the most significant predictors of happiness and longevity. 

These folks understand the importance of nurturing connections, whether it’s through family gatherings, weekly coffee dates with friends, or joining community groups. 

It’s not about the number of relationships but the quality. Feeling seen, supported, and valued by others is what truly matters.

Have you been meaning to reconnect with an old friend or spend more time with your loved ones? Consider this your sign. Strengthening your social bonds isn’t just good for your heart—it’s good for your health, too.

4) They embrace a positive mindset

Attitude really is everything. Those who feel young beyond their 60s tend to have a positive outlook on life. They see challenges as opportunities for growth, rather than obstacles.

These individuals often practice gratitude, acknowledging the good in their lives rather than focusing on the negatives. A sunny disposition doesn’t just brighten their day, but it also radiates to those around them.

But having a positive mindset doesn’t mean they ignore life’s difficulties. Instead, they accept them as part of the journey and remain optimistic about overcoming them.

5) They maintain a sense of purpose

A few years back, I went through a difficult phase. 

I had just retired, and for the first time in my life, I didn’t have a job to go to, deadlines to meet, or projects to complete. I felt lost and adrift. Then I realized that what I was missing was a sense of purpose.

Having a purpose gives us direction and motivation. It fills our days with activities we love and are passionate about. More importantly, it gives us a reason to wake up every morning with excitement and anticipation.

Finding your purpose might take some time and self-reflection, but it’s worth the effort. Once you find it, it could be your ticket to feeling youthful and vibrant, no matter your age.

6) They make time for play

Remember when we were kids, and playtime was the best part of the day? Somewhere along the way, many of us forget the joy that comes from simply having fun.

But those who feel young at heart? They’ve remembered. They know the importance of letting their hair down and indulging in activities that bring them joy and laughter.

They might join a local dance class, take up a new hobby, or simply spend an afternoon playing with their grandkids. The activity itself doesn’t matter as much as the spirit of fun and enjoyment it brings.

So go ahead, and embrace your inner child. Make time for play in your life. It’s an essential ingredient in the recipe for staying young at heart.

7) They practice self-care

At the heart of feeling young, regardless of age, is taking care of oneself. This goes beyond regular exercise or a healthy diet. It’s about giving yourself permission to rest, to relax, and to recharge.

Self-care can take many forms. It could be a quiet evening with a good book, a relaxing bath, or simply saying no to things that drain you.

Remember, it’s not selfish to prioritize your needs. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup. By taking time for self-care, you’re not just nurturing your body, but also nourishing your soul.

And there’s no better way to keep the youthful spark alive than by treating yourself with kindness and respect.

Final thought: It’s all about attitude

The secret to feeling young well into your 60s and beyond might not be found in a bottle of anti-aging cream or a miracle diet. Instead, it’s likely nestled within our attitudes and daily habits.

The seven habits we’ve explored – from prioritizing exercise to practicing self-care – all have one thing in common. They’re about embracing life fully, regardless of age.

So go ahead, embrace these habits, embrace life, keep playing, and stay young at heart.