One of the greatest riches in my life is the friendships I have forged over the years. Some have lasted for decades, others are more recent.
But with age, it becomes easy to let these connections fade. Routines take over, and reaching out can end up feeling like a chore.
Maintaining social relationships is essential for aging well. Winston Churchill said:
“We earn our living by what we receive, but we build our lives by what we give.”
Giving your time and attention to your friends is one of the best ways to nurture your sense of purpose and belonging.
I have observed that older people who continue to participate in gatherings – cafes, meals, cultural outings, association meetings – are often happier and less stressed.
If you continue to maintain your relationships, spend time with loved ones, or even just call a friend to check in on them, you already have a valuable advantage.
I’ve already mentioned this in a previous article, but I remain convinced of the power of lifelong learning. It’s never too late to take up a new hobby or delve deeper into a subject that has always interested you.
One of my neighbors, aged 70, decided to learn English during lockdown. Today, he regularly chats online with native speakers, and you should see the sparkle in his eyes when he talks about his progress.
Keep your sense of humor.
Humor is one of those discreet treasures that can lighten even the most difficult moments.
I remember my grandfather joking about his “rusty joints” every time he tried to get up from his armchair. It didn’t make his arthritis go away, of course, but it made it more bearable, and above all, it made everyone laugh.
A good laugh can reduce stress hormones, improve mood, and even boost the immune system. If you’re over 70 and still find reasons to laugh—whether it’s at your grandchildren’s puns, your dog’s antics, or your own blunders—you’re cultivating a precious form of well-being.
Moreover, according to this study, laughter has positive effects on mental health, helping to reduce anxiety, depression and stress.
Humor also creates connections. A shared anecdote or a lighthearted joke can bring generations closer and make interactions more human and warmer. Those who still know how to laugh remain approachable, open, and curious about the world around them.
Take on new challenges
Let’s be honest: as we get older, it becomes more tempting to stay seated on the sofa. Habits become entrenched, and novelty can sometimes seem unnecessary, or even intimidating.
But if you continue to take on new challenges – whether it’s volunteering in an unfamiliar field, organizing a local event, or embarking on a home renovation project – you’re cultivating a mindset that fosters youthfulness of heart.
Winston Churchill wrote: “Continuous effort, not strength or intelligence, is the key to unlocking our potential.” And I can only agree.
Even small challenges – redesigning the garden, learning to use a video conferencing app to talk to your grandchildren, or trying out a new recipe – keep the brain active and the mood upbeat.
Yes, new challenges sometimes come with their share of frustrations. You might fail, or you might stumble. But if you keep trying, learning, and adapting, you’ll send a clear message to the world: you can be over 70 and still be evolving.
Have a positive mindset
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