7 Habits of People Who Age Well

Aging is a reason for joy, even if we forget this far too often in our youth-obsessed world. This is how you make the best of it!

We all get it: We get older and we get old. And we should all be glad we lived to see that. And that is the first thing we realize when it comes to aging: That the inner attitude plays a big role in whether we are healthy and happy – or not.

If we then also pay attention to a healthy diet and a proper portion of exercise in everyday life, this is already half the battle for a second half of life that does not restrict us, but enriches us. The only thing we cannot influence is our genetic disposition.

These 7 habits cultivate people who make the best of aging:

1. They think positively

Older people who (also) experience old age as a source of life experience and satisfaction recover from illnesses more quickly than people who associate old age primarily with helplessness and uselessness, according to the “Journal of the American Medical Association”. Those who manage to accept the loss of youth can also enjoy life much more.

2. They pay attention to what they eat…

Your diet plays an important role in how you age. A low-sugar, low-fat diet with lots of fruit, vegetables, whole grains and proteins is the healthiest way to go. Eating enough omega-3 fatty acids – from nuts, fish and linseed, for example – will also help your skin stay young. Sugar and fat, on the other hand, can accelerate the aging process.

3. … and how much

Being overweight can shorten your life because it promotes diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease – and because you tend to exercise less than when you are slim (and light).

4. They move

A woman aged 30 years and older loses up to 23 percent of her muscle mass during the course of her life, says Fabio Comana of the “National Academy of Sports Medicine”. Sport is essential to counteract the loss of muscle and to stay strong and fit. By the way: If you move a lot, you also keep your brain fit.

5. They maintain their relationships

Friends and family help you stay fit and healthy for longer. Several studies have shown that people with strong social ties live longer and are more satisfied.

6. They remain curious

Those who remain open to their surroundings and the world have more of life. People who are thirsty for knowledge, who are willing to expose themselves to new and unusual things or to deal with them, remain mentally flexible.

7. They protect themselves from the sun

Too much time in the sun causes wrinkles and can cause skin cancer. Protecting yourself also prevents premature skin aging.