Take a look around, and you’ll notice some people in their 60s and 70s who still carry a spark that seems to defy the passage of time.
They radiate a kind of vibrancy, making each day look like a new adventure rather than a slow winding down.
It’s not just about genetics or luck. There are certain principles they follow—daily habits and mindsets that help them maintain that youthful energy.
Below are seven rules I’ve observed in people who appear ageless at heart, along with a few tips on how you can apply these ideas to your own life.
1. They keep learning
Have you ever met someone well past retirement age who’s more tech-savvy than folks half their age?
That’s the power of lifelong learning in action.
Instead of believing the myth that new skills are only for the young, these folks jump into classes, workshops, and even online tutorials without hesitation.
They might pick up painting, learn a new language, or start tinkering with modern gadgets.
As Einstein once said, “Once you stop learning, you start dying.”
It might sound dramatic, but there’s substance to this statement.
Studies have shown that ongoing education—whether formal or informal—can support better memory and cognitive function in older adults.
Think of your brain like a muscle: the more you stretch it, the stronger it gets.
2. They keep their bodies in motion
You don’t have to run marathons to enjoy the perks of staying active.
People I’ve seen who age gracefully often do simple, consistent activities like walking, gentle yoga, or swimming.
The key is to make movement a regular habit rather than an occasional burst of exercise when you “have the time.”
Your body is your vessel. If you don’t protect it, you’re sabotaging yourself. That holds true whether you’re 30 or 70.
Physical activity boosts mood, supports cardiovascular health, and can even sharpen your mind.
According to health experts, consistent low-impact exercise can reduce the likelihood of certain chronic conditions and improve overall longevity.
If you’re not sure where to start, make it super easy. Even a light stretch routine every night or a short walk around the neighborhood after dinner can do wonders.
The point is to signal to your body—and mind—that you’re still in the game, ready to explore and enjoy life’s experiences.
3. They prioritize meaningful connections
It’s no secret that humans are social creatures, but those who remain youthful deep into later life seem to take this to heart.
Rather than drifting into isolation, they actively cultivate friendships, family bonds, and community ties.
They check in on loved ones, host casual get-togethers, or volunteer for local events.
When you see someone in their 60s or 70s brimming with life, chances are they aren’t doing it all alone.
This lines up perfectly with what the longest-running study on happiness – the Harvard Study of Adult Development – has found: social connection keeps us healthy and happy.
It’s not about having a massive circle of acquaintances—quality trumps quantity. Even a small network of genuine, caring individuals can keep your spirits high and offer a sense of belonging.
4. They challenge their own mindset
If you’ve ever had a conversation with someone who’s older yet amazingly open-minded, you’ll know what I’m talking about.
These individuals don’t cling to outdated perspectives or say “back in my day” every five minutes.
Instead, they’re intrigued by how the world evolves and can adapt without feeling threatened.
It might be tempting to assume that we’ve “seen it all” by the time we hit a certain age, but that mentality can easily turn into stagnation.
By staying flexible—whether that’s being open to new tech, new cultural shifts, or new ways of thinking—these folks keep their minds agile.
They might not jump on every trend, but they’ll give it a fair shot before deciding if it’s for them.
The willingness to challenge your own comfort zone is a game-changer when it comes to maintaining a bright, lively outlook.
5. They have a sense of play
Playfulness isn’t just for children—it’s a mindset.
The older adults who exude a youthful air tend to bring humor and curiosity into ordinary situations.
They might crack jokes, try new board games with their grandkids, or even experiment with new recipes just for fun.
A sense of play breaks monotony and prevents life from feeling too rigid.
Plus, laughter releases endorphins, which can elevate mood and lower stress.
Think about the difference between someone who’s always serious and someone who can still laugh at life’s small absurdities. It’s night and day.
Embracing a playful attitude doesn’t mean being irresponsible—it means staying open to joy and understanding that lighthearted moments matter at any stage of life.
6. They know how to handle stress
Research suggests that chronic stress can speed up aging, both mentally and physically.
So it’s no surprise that older adults who practice good stress management often look and feel younger than their peers.
I met a woman in her late 60s who swears by 15 minutes of mindfulness each morning. She told me it’s like pressing a “reset” button for the rest of the day.
Everyone’s stress-busting routine is unique.
For one person, it might be reading quietly by the window. For another, it might be a brisk walk with a close friend.
The key is to recognize when stress is building and have a plan to keep it from taking over your mind.
7. They find purpose in something beyond themselves
Last but not least, older adults who radiate that youthful vibe usually have a sense of purpose guiding them day to day.
It could be volunteering at a local shelter, tending a community garden, or playing an active role in their grandkids’ school activities.
They know life isn’t just about themselves—it’s about making a meaningful contribution.
Purpose can come in many forms, whether it’s serving on a neighborhood board or creating art that brings joy to others.
Greg McKeown, author of Essentialism, emphasizes that clarity of purpose helps us focus our time and energy on the things that truly matter.
That focus keeps you waking up each morning with anticipation, rather than dread.
Purpose doesn’t need to be grandiose—it just needs to matter to you.
When you care about something larger than your own daily grind, it fuels a sense of aliveness that can carry you through the decades.
There’s a sort of glow that comes from knowing you’re making a difference, no matter how small.
Putting it all together
People who remain youthful into their 60s and 70s usually follow these seven guiding principles, whether consciously or not.
The good news is, all of us can choose to adopt these practices at any age.
Think of them as a roadmap to a more vibrant, engaged way of living—one where your spirit keeps shining, even as the years roll on.
After all, it’s never too late to start building a life that feels energized, meaningful, and full of possibility.
