While you can’t prevent the grey hairs and fine lines from eventually making their appearance, there are some actions you could take to be happy, healthy and content as you grow older.

In what mental and physical state do you want to be when the higher numbers on the age spectrum start creeping up on you? We can’t stop the clock, but we can take the necessary steps to ensure our best years are still to come. We’re rounding up six tips to ageing well – let’s make getting older something to be celebrated.

Ditch bad habits

Have you picked up some bad habits over the years that might have a negative impact on how well you age? It is never too late to shake them off. Some of the most prominent ones that might come to mind are smoking, regular consumption of alcohol and bad eating habits – all of which can harm your health and overall well-being, especially as you age. If you find it too difficult to get rid of these (or other) bad habits, consult a medical professional for advice and possible solutions.

Stay active

One important and healthy habit to maintain or pick up is that of staying active. Don’t be fooled into thinking that older people can’t exercise. In fact, it’s highly recommended that you continue to stay active as you age, as it holds various benefits. It gives you an energy boost, improves sleep, reduces the risks of heart disease, cholesterol, obesity and strengthens your bones. Find activities that you enjoy doing and stick to it – go for a walk with your dog, join your friends on a leisurely hike or go for a gym class that suits your fitness level and age.

Cultivate connections 

Loneliness does harm to your mental health and can contribute to anxiety and depression. Studies have also found a link between loneliness and poor health and well-being. Build meaningful relationships and stay connected to existing ones, and do your best not to isolate yourself. Whether you use phone- or video calls to catch up with old friends or engage in activities that allow you to connect with new people, cultivate connections in whichever way possible.

Carry on with your hobbies

Don’t stop engaging in hobbies as you get older. Doing activities that you enjoy is a sure-fire way to boost happiness and give you a sense of purpose. It’s also known to reduce depression. So, do that thing that gives you pleasure and joy.

Keep your mind sharp

Looking after our physical health is important when it comes to graceful ageing, but as we’ve learnt from the previous two tips, mental health is another key factor to consider. To maintain or improve brain power and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, keep your mind sharp by learning new things (perhaps you’d like to give a new hobby a try) and doing activities that stimulate the brain, such as reading or playing chess, puzzles, crossword puzzles or sudoku.

Don’t neglect check-ups

While many of us think we’re invincible to life-threatening ailments (‘It would never happen to me’ is something that might have crossed your mind before), it’s important to go for regular routine tests and check-ups, especially as we get older. These check-ups may include looking for signs of high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol and cancer – early detection makes intervention possible, which may save your life. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the dentist and optometrist to ensure healthy teeth and eyes, too.

Words: Bianca Muller

Photography:Courtesy Images