There’s a considerable difference between merely existing and truly living, especially when you’re in your 70s.
The difference boils down to activity.
Simply existing means you’re just getting by, doing the bare minimum to make it through each day.
But truly living? That means you’re engaging with life, making the most of every moment, regardless of your age.
Being in your 70s doesn’t mean you have to stop doing the things that give you joy.
In fact, there are seven specific things that if you can still do at this age, you’re not just existing—you’re truly living.
And so, this article is for those who want to make their 70s a decade of real living, not just mere existence
Let me share these seven things with you:
1) Embrace physical movement
One area where the line between merely existing and truly living is clearly drawn is in physical activity.
Being in your 70s doesn’t mean you have to become sedentary.
In fact, research shows that staying physically active can boost your health, happiness, and overall quality of life at any age.
Staying active doesn’t necessarily mean running marathons or pumping iron.
It could be as simple as taking daily walks, doing light stretches, or even dancing to your favorite tunes.
If you’re still embracing physical movement in your 70s, you’re not just ticking off the days—you’re actively engaging with life—and, while everyone’s abilities and limitations differ, the key is to find an activity you enjoy and can safely do.
That’s the ticket to not just existing, but truly living—so, dust off those walking shoes or put on that dance music!
2) Keep learning new things
Here’s where my own experience comes into play.
When I turned 70, I took up the guitar.
It was something I’d always wanted to do, but life always seemed to get in the way.
But, at 70, I decided it was time to make it happen.
Learning a new instrument was challenging, no doubt about it—my fingers didn’t always want to cooperate and sometimes, my patience wore thin.
But bit by bit, I started to get the hang of it.
Every time I strummed a chord correctly or played a song from start to finish, it brought me immense joy.
It wasn’t just about the music—it was about proving to myself that age is no barrier to learning new things.
Taking on this new challenge sparked a sense of curiosity and excitement in me that I hadn’t felt in years.
If you’re still open to learning and trying new things in your 70s, you’re definitely living life to the fullest, not just existing.
Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of mastering something new at this stage of life.
3) Maintain social connections
Did you know that isolation can have the same impact on your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day?
That’s right, maintaining social connections in your 70s is not just about having fun—it’s about safeguarding your health.
Regular interaction with friends and family, participating in community activities, or even just striking up a conversation with a neighbor can greatly enrich your life.
Social connections provide emotional support, improve mental health, and can even lengthen lifespan.
If you’re still keeping up with old friends, making new ones, or even engaging in meaningful conversations in your 70s, you’re not just existing—you’re truly living.
4) Pursue a passion
Having a passion gives life a sense of purpose as it keeps us motivated, engaged, and excited about the world around us.
In your 70s, pursuing a passion—whether it’s a long-held interest or a newfound hobby—can make you feel alive and vibrant.
Maybe it’s gardening, writing poetry, painting, cooking gourmet meals, or birdwatching.
Whatever it is, if you’re still pursuing what you love in your 70s, you’re not just existing—you’re truly living.
Go ahead, let your passion guide you because it’s never too late to embrace what makes your heart sing!
5) Cherish simple pleasures
There’s a bench in my local park that faces the west.
Every evening, if the weather allows, I make a point to sit there and watch the sun dip below the horizon.
It’s a simple act, but it fills me with a profound sense of peace and gratitude; it’s my daily reminder of the beauty in the world and my place in it.
In your 70s, moments like these—the taste of your morning coffee, the sound of laughter, a good book on a rainy day—can bring immense joy.
If you’re still able to find happiness in these simple pleasures, you’re not just existing—you’re truly living.
Take the time to appreciate them.
After all, life is made up of these small but precious moments.
6) Maintain a sense of curiosity
Staying curious is another key to truly living, not just existing, in your 70s.
Curiosity keeps your mind active, sharp, and open to new experiences.
It pushes you to ask questions, seek answers, and continue to grow and learn.
If you’re still eager to explore new places, try new foods, read new books, or simply learn more about the world around you in your 70s, you’re not just passing time—you’re truly living.
Keep asking questions, keep exploring, and keep that spark of curiosity alive—it’s one of the best ways to fully engage with life at any age.
7) Practice gratitude
The most crucial thing to remember is this: practicing gratitude can change your perspective on life.
In your 70s, if you can take a moment each day to appreciate the good in your life—be it a kind gesture from a stranger, an enjoyable meal, or simply the beauty of nature—you’re not just going through the motions—you’re truly living.
Practicing gratitude allows you to recognize and appreciate the value in every moment, big or small.
It invites joy into your life, helping you to live fully and heartily.
Take a moment each day to be thankful—it’s the most important ingredient in the recipe for a life that’s truly lived.
Final thoughts: Embrace the journey
The golden years of our lives are often misunderstood and misrepresented.
Ageing isn’t about slowing down and fading away—it’s about embracing the journey and living life to the fullest.
Every day in your 70s, and beyond, is an opportunity.
An opportunity to learn, to connect, to explore, to appreciate, and most importantly, to live.
The seven things we’ve discussed are not just activities, they are a mindset—a mindset that celebrates life and recognizes the immense value of each moment.
Whether it’s watching a sunset, learning a new skill, or simply cherishing a quiet moment of gratitude, the beauty of truly living lies in these simple yet profound experiences.
In the words of Abraham Lincoln, “And in the end it’s not the years in your life that count; it’s the life in your years.”
So here’s to living—not just existing—in your 70s and making every moment count!
