Feel Incredible in Your 60s with These 14 Easy Must-Try Changes
Is 60 too late to embrace positive changes? Absolutely not.
Research indicates that adopting healthy habits at this age can make you feel good and extend your life expectancy by up to 20 years.
Aging doesn’t mean you must miss out on fun or feel confined to a corner chair. In fact, your 60s can be some of the most remarkable years of your life if you prioritize health and self-care. You don’t need to make drastic changes; even minor, positive adjustments to your daily routine can significantly improve your overall well-being.
So, if you haven’t been particularly health-conscious until now, here are 16 positive changes to make to feel incredible in your 60s.
1. Get Moving
Staying active through regular exercise is vital for your physical and mental well-being, especially as you age. Exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga can prevent chronic diseases like diabetes and heart conditions, strengthen muscles, improve balance, improve bone health, and reduce the risk of falls.
Physical activity also releases “feel-good” hormones, which can lift your mood and help with anxiety or depression. The key is to find an activity you enjoy and get moving.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet
A healthy diet is one of the most effective ways to feel great as you reach your 60s. Limiting processed foods is important, as excessive eating of ultra-processed items can lead to cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and other chronic health issues.
Instead, fill your plate with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to give your body the nutrients it needs for good health. Studies show that the Mediterranean diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and olive oil, reduces the risk of cognitive decline in seniors because these foods are high in antioxidants and healthy fats.
3. Sleep Well
Quality sleep is crucial for your overall health, yet research shows that nearly 50% of people aged 55 and older struggle with falling or staying asleep. While it’s normal to experience changes in sleep patterns as we age, consistently disturbed sleep or waking up feeling fatigued is not a sign of healthy aging. Poor sleep can increase the risk of falls, impact mood, and jeopardize physical health.
Establishing a bedtime routine can be beneficial for better sleep. Consider reading a book, taking a warm bath, or listening to calming music. Also, avoid screens and caffeine in the hours close to bedtime, as they can interfere with your ability to fall asleep.
4. Stay Socially Connected
Keeping your social circle buzzing is vital for emotional health and stability. Strong ties with family, friends, and your community provide support and fight off feelings of loneliness, which is a common issue for seniors.
Getting involved in social activities like joining clubs, volunteering, or taking group classes can boost your sense of belonging and lift your spirits. Studies show that social interaction can lead to better health, improved cognitive function, and a longer life.
5. Manage Stress
Chronic stress and anxiety are tricky at any age, but if you're worrying in your golden years, it can significantly affect the quality of your life. Aging interferes with your body's stress management system, and organs like your heart and lungs may struggle to cope with and recover from stress as they did in their younger years.
So, finding ways to manage it is crucial. Try to avoid situations and thoughts that trigger anxiety and restlessness. Instead, fill your life with activities, hobbies, and thoughts that bring you joy. If you're grappling with worries or stress, don’t hesitate to seek help. Sometimes, a meaningful conversation with someone can make a difference in your feelings.
6. Keep Your Mind Sharp
The brain loves a good challenge. Puzzles, thought-provoking activities, and problem-solving keep it sharp and alert. So, don’t shy away from learning new things or tackling challenging problems — it’s never too late.
Studies have shown that picking up new hobbies or pushing yourself to learn can help prevent cognitive decline as you age.
7. Take Care of Your Skin
Aging can cause dryness, wrinkles, and less elasticity, so a good skincare routine is essential. Start by gently cleansing your skin to remove impurities while keeping natural oils. Then, use a hydrating moisturizer to help maintain elasticity and protect against environmental damage.
Additionally, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly to prevent sun damage that speeds up aging. You can also wear protective clothing and seek shade during peak sun hours. Adding antioxidants like vitamin C (in your diet and/or topically) can also help improve your skin's appearance. Consider seeing a dermatologist for personalized skincare advice to keep your skin healthy and radiant in your golden years.
8. Stay Positive
Having a good attitude can change how you feel physically. It’s best to focus on the bright side and appreciate what you're grateful for. Jotting down what makes you happy in a journal can also help regulate your emotions.
Most people retire in their 60s and have time to deeply reflect on their lives. Count your blessings and celebrate your achievements. Think about all those tricky situations you faced and how they eventually resolved. It's all about being grateful.
9. Get Regular Health Check-ups
Regular health check-ups with your primary care doctor are crucial for staying on top of your health. They can help catch or manage potential issues before they become burdensome. Even if you feel great, regular screenings are important.
Don’t hesitate to share any concerns with your doctor, such as new aches or pains, mental health concerns, changes in energy levels, etc. They can provide valuable advice and treatment options to help you stay healthy.
10. Stay Hydrated
Although drinking plenty of water is essential at every age, it becomes even more crucial with age. Keep a reusable water bottle with you and take sips throughout the day, refilling it as needed. This routine will support kidney functioning, help flush toxins, and support general cellular health.
There is no one-size-fits-all regarding how much water older adults should drink. But there is an understandable rule that you should drink about one-third to half of your body weight in water (in ounces). So, for example, if you weigh 165 pounds, you should drink 82-83 ounces of water daily.
11. Practice Good Hygiene
Maintaining personal hygiene is another critical factor in staying healthy and preventing illness. Aging can make you prone to allergies, and your body might catch germs and infections more easily due to immunity changes.
To promote personal hygiene, focus on eating well, getting adequate sleep, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, using deodorant, cleaning your home, and brushing your teeth. Engaging in these activities keeps you healthy and provides a positive way to fill your time.
12. Stay Safe at Home
It’s important to make sure your home is secure to prevent accidents and falls. Utilize non-slip mats in the bathroom and keep pathways clear of clutter. Plus, sufficient lighting is crucial for visibility as you move around.
If mobility is a concern, consider installing handrails on stairs and grab bars in the bathroom. These safety measures will help prevent accidents while preserving your independence and freedom at home.
13. Engage in Hobbies
Your 60s are the perfect time to revive those old hobbies you had to put on hold in your younger years because of your busy schedule. If you love reading, gather all your favorite books and enjoy them in your downtime. If gardening is your thing, now’s a great time to become a plant parent.
Ultimately, pick up something that brings you joy, such as knitting, painting, hiking, exploring, traveling, or drawing.
14. Keep a Healthy Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for overall well-being. For seniors, maintaining a healthy weight is particularly beneficial for the knees and hips to reduce unnecessary joint strain.
Adopt an active lifestyle and a balanced diet to manage your weight effectively. To do so sustainably, prioritize healthy eating habits over quick-fix diets. If managing your weight is challenging for you, consider seeking guidance from a medical professional. They can help you develop a personalized strategy that works for you.