There’s a clear distinction between aging and aging well.
The key lies in maintaining a sharp mind and a fit body even into your 80s.
In my experience, those who manage this feat don’t just wake up one day in their golden years fit as a fiddle. Instead, they’ve been practicing certain daily habits for years, if not decades.
These are the habits that keep them sharp and spry while their peers may struggle. They’re not secrets, but they do require commitment.
In this article, I’m going to share with you the 10 things they do every day that help them stay mentally sharp and physically fit well into their 80s.
1) They keep moving
One thing I’ve noticed about people in their 80s who are still mentally sharp and physically fit is that they are rarely sedentary.
It’s not about running marathons or lifting heavy weights. Rather, it’s about maintaining a consistent level of physical activity throughout the day.
They may take regular walks around the neighborhood, tend to their garden, or engage in hobbies that keep them moving like dancing or yoga.
These folks understand that our bodies are designed for movement. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can help improve brain function and slow down cognitive decline.
So, it’s not surprising to find that these individuals rarely spend an afternoon sitting on the couch. Instead, they make a conscious effort to stay active, knowing that their physical health is intrinsically linked with their mental well-being.
2) They prioritize mental exercises
A personal story comes to mind when I think of this point. My grandmother, who lived actively into her late 80s, was a keen bridge player. She played at least three times a week.
She always said that bridge was her secret to staying mentally sharp. It required memory, strategy, and communication. It kept her brain training daily.
I watched as she outwitted players half her age with her sharp memory and quick calculations. This was more than just a game to her; it was a way of life.
Taking a leaf from her book, many individuals in their 80s who stay mentally sharp invest time daily in mental exercises. This could be anything from puzzles and crossword games to more intricate mental challenges.
What’s important is the consistency. Just like physical muscles, the brain needs regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. So find an activity that stimulates your mind and make it a part of your daily routine.
3) They maintain a balanced diet
People who stay mentally sharp and physically fit in their 80s typically pay careful attention to their diet. They understand that what they eat can directly affect their physical health and cognitive function.
These individuals often lean towards a Mediterranean-style diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil and fish. This diet has been linked to lower rates of cognitive decline and an increased lifespan.
Contrary to popular belief, chocolate can also be a part of a healthy diet. Dark chocolate, in particular, is rich in flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants. Some studies suggest that it can improve brain function, making it a sweet treat that can be enjoyed in moderation.
Keeping a balanced diet doesn’t mean you have to give up all your favorite foods. It’s about finding the right balance and recognizing the impact your food choices have on your overall health and well-being.
4) They get plenty of sleep
A good night’s sleep is often overlooked, but it’s a crucial factor for those who stay sharp and fit into their 80s.
These individuals understand the importance of quality rest and make it a priority. They aim for around seven to nine hours of sleep each night, in line with the recommendations for adults by the National Sleep Foundation.
Sleep is not only essential for physical recovery but also plays a significant role in cognitive function. During sleep, our brains consolidate memories and remove toxic by-products that have accumulated during the day.
Consistent, quality sleep can help improve concentration, productivity, and overall cognitive function. It’s one of those simple yet powerful habits that can contribute significantly to staying mentally sharp and physically fit in your 80s and beyond.
5) They foster social connections
People who maintain their mental sharpness and physical fitness into their 80s typically have a strong social network.
Whether it’s weekly meet-ups with friends, regular phone calls with family, or participating in community activities, these individuals make an effort to stay socially engaged.
Strong social connections have been linked to a lower risk of dementia, better brain health, and increased longevity. It’s not just about the mental stimulation that comes with conversation and interaction. It’s also about the emotional support that strong relationships provide.
So whether you’re an extrovert who loves big gatherings or an introvert who prefers one-on-one interactions, maintaining regular social connections can be a powerful tool for staying sharp and fit as you age.
6) They embrace lifelong learning
One of the most heartwarming aspects I’ve observed in people who stay sharp and fit into their 80s is their thirst for knowledge – they never stop learning.
These individuals see every day as an opportunity to learn something new, be it a skill, a fact, or a deeper understanding of the world around them.
This lifelong learning mindset keeps their brain active, engaged, and flexible. It brings them joy and a sense of purpose. They understand that learning doesn’t stop when school ends; in fact, it’s just the beginning.
Embracing lifelong learning can be as simple as reading a book, taking up a new hobby, or even exploring a new walking route. It’s about keeping the mind curious and open to new experiences, which can contribute significantly to mental sharpness and physical fitness in later years.
7) They practice mindfulness
I remember a period in my life when stress seemed to be my constant companion. It was during this time that I discovered the practice of mindfulness.
Mindfulness is about being fully present in the moment, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, without becoming overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.
People who stay mentally sharp and physically fit into their 80s often incorporate mindfulness into their daily routine. It could be through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the beauty around them.
This practice helps reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional well-being. It’s not always easy in our fast-paced world, but it’s a habit that can have profound benefits for both mental and physical health as we age.
8) They take time for rest and relaxation
While staying active and engaged is essential, those who maintain their mental sharpness and physical fitness into their 80s also understand the importance of rest and relaxation.
In a society that often glorifies busyness, taking time to relax can seem like a luxury or even a waste of time. But these individuals know that rest is a critical component of overall health.
Resting isn’t just about sleeping; it’s about taking intentional breaks from physical and mental activities. It could be as simple as sitting quietly in nature, enjoying a cup of tea, or listening to calming music.
This deliberate downtime helps recharge the brain, improve concentration, boost mood, and enhance productivity. It’s a seemingly simple habit that can have a profound impact on staying mentally sharp and physically fit in your golden years.
9) They stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water might seem like basic health advice, but it’s a habit that many of us tend to overlook.
Those who stay mentally sharp and physically fit into their 80s usually make sure they’re well-hydrated throughout the day. They understand that even mild dehydration can impact cognitive function, mood, and physical performance.
Water plays a crucial role in our bodies, from aiding digestion to maintaining the balance of bodily fluids. It also helps deliver oxygen throughout the body and assist in maintaining body temperature.
Staying properly hydrated is a simple yet effective way to support both mental sharpness and physical fitness. So keep a water bottle handy, and remember to sip throughout the day.
10) They maintain a positive attitude
Above all, people who stay mentally sharp and physically fit into their 80s typically possess a positive attitude towards life. They understand the power of positivity and its impact on their overall health.
They face challenges with resilience, embrace opportunities with enthusiasm, and nurture a sense of gratitude for their blessings.
A positive attitude not only boosts mood but also promotes healthier lifestyles, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and can even increase lifespan. It’s a powerful tool that can transform the way we age.
Remember, positivity isn’t about ignoring life’s difficulties. It’s about approaching them with optimism and resilience, knowing that every challenge is an opportunity for growth.
Final thoughts: It’s about the journey
When it comes to staying physically fit and mentally sharp into your 80s, there’s an underlying thread that weaves through all these practices: consistency.
These daily habits are not about grand gestures or drastic changes. They are about small, consistent actions that add up over time.
They are about understanding that health is a journey, not a destination. It’s about making choices every day that support your well-being, both physically and mentally.
The Greek philosopher Aristotle once said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” This holds true for our quest for health and longevity.
Did you like my article? Like me on Facebook to see more articles like this in your feed.
