People who are happy and joyful in their 70s and beyond usually display these 7 behaviors, says psychology

There’s a remarkable difference between simply aging and aging joyfully.

The distinction is rooted in our behaviors. Many people go through life just going with the flow, but those who maintain happiness and joy into their 70s and beyond? They follow a more intentional path.

A joyful journey into the golden years isn’t about avoiding wrinkles or staying as youthful as possible. It’s about adopting certain behaviors that make this stage of life fulfilling.

Psychology suggests that there are seven specific behaviors frequently observed in those who thrive in their later years. Let’s dive into these habits so you too can embrace a future of happiness and joy.

1) Embrace change

The line between aging and aging joyfully could be as simple as your perspective on change.

Thriving in your 70s and beyond often requires the ability to adapt. Life is constantly throwing curveballs, and those who age joyfully understand this.

In fact, they don’t just understand it – they embrace it.

Instead of resisting the changes that come with age – be it physical, social, or personal – they learn to accept them. They see these changes as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks.

This acceptance and adaptability pave the way for a happier, more joyful experience in later life. So if you want to age joyfully, consider embracing change rather than avoiding it.

2) Practice gratitude

Practicing gratitude has been a game-changer in my own life.

I started journaling about the things I was grateful for every day. Some days, it was as simple as the smell of fresh coffee in the morning or a phone call from an old friend. Over time, I noticed a significant shift in my overall mood and perspective.

And it’s not just me – this behavior is often seen in those who are happy and joyful into their later years.

This is something that I’ve found to be profoundly true.

By acknowledging the good things in our lives, we shift our focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant. This simple practice of gratitude can bring about a sense of contentment and joy that lasts well into our golden years.

3) Prioritize relationships

Do you invest time in your relationships?

Authentic connections are a critical factor to happiness and joy, especially in later life. Maintaining strong bonds with family, friends, or community members is something that those who age joyfully often prioritize.

It’s not always easy, though. Relationships require effort and nurturing. They involve forgiveness, understanding, and sometimes even letting go. But the reward is a sense of belonging and emotional support that can significantly contribute to our well-being.

As psychologist Carl Jung once said, “The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed.”

Relationships can indeed be transformative. They provide us with shared experiences, laughter, and companionship. They can give us a sense of purpose and belonging that can fuel our happiness and joy in the later stages of life.

4) Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Consistently, those who are joyful and happy in their 70s and beyond place a strong emphasis on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

This isn’t just about keeping active, although that’s certainly part of it. It’s about holistic health – ensuring the mind, body, and soul are cared for. This includes quality sleep, balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and mental health care.

A study published in the Journal of Aging and Health found that physical activity was significantly associated with happiness among older adults. The research suggested that regular physical activity could improve mental well-being.

But it’s not only about physical health. Mental and emotional health play equally vital roles in our overall well-being.

By nurturing all aspects of our health, we can enhance our quality of life and find greater joy in our later years.

5) Keep learning

Learning is a lifelong journey, and for me, it’s a journey I cherish.

Those who stay happy and joyful into their 70s and beyond are often those who keep their minds active. They read, pursue new hobbies, learn new skills, and maintain a sense of curiosity about the world around them.

Psychologist Carol Dweck, known for her work on “growth mindset,” said, “In a growth mindset, challenges are exciting rather than threatening. So rather than thinking, oh, I’m going to reveal my weaknesses, you say, wow, here’s a chance to grow.”

And isn’t that what life is all about? Growing and evolving?

So if you want to age joyfully, consider adopting a learner’s mindset. Embrace the opportunity to grow, to learn something new. It keeps the mind sharp and the spirit young.

6) Accept imperfection

Here’s something a little unconventional: embrace your flaws.

Those who age with joy and happiness often have a healthy acceptance of their imperfections. They understand that life is a series of hits and misses, and that’s perfectly okay.

Isn’t that profound? Sometimes, it’s only when we stop trying to be perfect that we can truly grow and transform.

Accepting imperfection doesn’t mean giving up on self-improvement. Instead, it means recognizing that we are human, and humans are not perfect. And that’s perfectly fine.

This acceptance can lead to a more peaceful and content life in our later years.

7) Cultivate positivity

Finally, fostering a positive outlook can do wonders.

Happiness and joy in later life seem to be linked to maintaining a positive attitude.

As psychologist Abraham Maslow noted, “The good or healthy society would then be defined as one that permitted people’s highest purposes to emerge by satisfying all their basic needs.”

Ultimately, positivity breeds positivity. By focusing on the good and cultivating a positive mindset, we can truly enjoy our golden years.

Final reflections

The journey toward happiness and joy in our 70s and beyond, as indicated by psychology, is intertwined with our actions and attitudes.

These seven behaviors – embracing change, practicing gratitude, prioritizing relationships, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, keeping a learner’s mindset, accepting imperfection, and fostering positivity – are not just checkmarks on a list.

They’re a lifestyle choice, a commitment to seeking fulfillment in every stage of life.

As we reflect on these behaviors, we should remember that it’s never too late to start. Each day presents an opportunity to adopt these habits and cultivate a life of joy and happiness.

So let’s not just age – let’s age joyfully. Because life, in all its stages, is meant to be celebrated.