7 things boomers do that make them seem 15 years younger than they actually are

Age is just a number, especially for the baby boomer generation. You’d be surprised how many boomers out there are defying the calendar and living life with the zest and energy of someone 15 years younger.

It’s not magic or a secret potion; it’s all about the decisions they make in their daily routines. They’ve discovered the key habits that keep them feeling fresh, vibrant, and full of life – regardless of their birth year.

In this article, we’re going to dive into these seven behaviors that boomers adopt to keep themselves looking and feeling younger than they actually are.

And who knows? Maybe you’ll find a few tips you can incorporate into your own life, whether you’re a boomer or not. After all, in today’s fast-paced digital world, everyone could use a little extra youthfulness.

1) Regular physical activity

Fitness isn’t just for the young and spry. Boomers know that keeping active is one of the surefire ways to feel and look younger.

You won’t find them lounging around all day. Instead, they’re out there walking, cycling, swimming, or hitting the gym. They understand that regular physical activity keeps the body functioning optimally, maintaining strength, flexibility, and balance.

But it’s not just about physical health – staying active also boosts mental well-being. It’s a known stress-buster and mood-lifter, helping to keep the mind sharp and spirits high.

And the best part? You don’t need to be a marathon runner or a gym rat to reap these benefits. Even light activities like gardening or a daily stroll can make a world of difference.

So, if you want to keep up with the youthful boomers, it might be time to lace up those sneakers and get moving.

2) Embracing technology

One common assumption is that baby boomers are technophobes. But let me tell you, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

I remember my aunt, a classic boomer, was one of the first in our family to get an iPhone. She was texting before I even knew how to send an emoji! Now, she’s on Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok, staying connected with friends and family across the globe.

By embracing technology, she’s not just keeping up with the latest trends, but also keeping her mind engaged and active. She often tells me how learning new apps and tools keeps her feeling sharp and youthful.

So, it seems age is no barrier to being tech-savvy. If anything, embracing technology appears to be a secret weapon for boomers wanting to stay young at heart.

3) Lifelong learning

Boomers are no strangers to the idea of lifelong learning. They understand that keeping their minds active is as important as keeping their bodies in motion.

For example, did you know that a study found that learning new and demanding skills while maintaining an engaged social network are key to staying sharp as we age?

From taking up a new hobby, enrolling in online courses, or even joining a book club, boomers are continually finding ways to learn and grow. This habit not only keeps them mentally stimulated but also helps them feel more connected and engaged with the world around them.

So, if you’re looking to turn back the clock, consider picking up a new skill or diving into a subject that interests you. You’ll be surprised at how youthful it can make you feel.

4) Balanced diet

What you put into your body plays a huge part in how you feel and how you age. Boomers who seem to defy the years understand this well.

They focus on maintaining a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. They know the importance of staying hydrated and limit their intake of processed foods and sugary drinks.

This isn’t about following a strict diet or depriving themselves. It’s about making smart choices that nourish their bodies, keep their energy levels up, and support overall health.

Remember, you don’t need to make drastic changes overnight. Small, consistent tweaks to your eating habits can lead to big improvements in how you look and feel. After all, youthfulness starts from the inside out.

5) Prioritizing sleep

Sleep was something I used to take for granted, often sacrificing it to finish work or catch up on my favorite TV show. But I quickly realized the toll it was taking on my energy levels and overall well-being.

Boomers who stay young at heart don’t skimp on their shut-eye. They understand that quality sleep is crucial for physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance.

They have a bedtime routine to help them wind down and create an environment conducive to restful sleep. This could be anything from reading a book, listening to calming music, or turning off electronic devices an hour before bed.

I’ve started following their lead and made sleep a non-negotiable part of my day. The result? I wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on whatever the day throws at me. So, if you’re looking to turn back the clock, don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep.

6) Staying socially active

Boomers who seem years younger than their age don’t live in isolation. They value their social connections and stay actively involved in their communities.

Whether it’s meeting friends for a weekly coffee catch-up, volunteering at local events, or participating in group activities, they know the importance of social interaction for their mental and emotional well-being.

Engaging with others keeps them connected, boosts their mood, and provides a sense of belonging. It also keeps their communication skills sharp and their outlook on life positive.

So, if you’re striving to maintain that youthful spark, remember the importance of staying socially active. After all, people are social creatures, and maintaining strong connections can contribute significantly to our overall sense of youthfulness.

7) Positive mindset

Above all else, boomers who seem to defy the years carry a positive mindset. They view age as just a number and focus on the joys of living rather than dwelling on the passing years.

They embrace change, see challenges as opportunities for growth, and understand that it’s never too late to start something new. Their attitude towards life is infectious and inspiring.

This positive mindset doesn’t just keep them feeling young; it radiates from them, influencing those around them and making them seem younger to others. It’s a powerful reminder that youthfulness is as much about how you think as it is about what you do.

The heart of the matter

At the root of all these actions and habits is a simple, yet profound, understanding that age does not define us. It’s a number, not a sentence.

The boomers who seem to defy their years aren’t following a secret formula or tapping into hidden knowledge. They’re embracing habits that we all know are good for us but often neglect in the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The key factor in their youthful demeanor is their attitude – their willingness to learn, adapt, stay active, and maintain a positive outlook.

As Mark Twain once beautifully put it, “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”

So, let’s take a leaf out of their book and remember that staying young at heart isn’t about turning back the hands of time, but about how we choose to live our lives right now.