This checklist is based on the latest research:
- 1. You have strong social connections. Older adults are more at risk of loneliness caused by living alone, no longer working, and being less mobile.
A National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine report found that more than a third of adults aged 45 and older are lonely, and a quarter of adults 65 and over are socially isolated.
- Next, You are physically active
People who are physically active and have exercise naturally incorporated into their lives are more likely to age well, said Dr James Powers, an associate professor of medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
This could be gardening, walking or playing pickleball.
- Third. You follow a Mediterranean diet
A huge amount of research has designated the Mediterranean diet as the gold standard eating regime. It involves mainly vegetables, fruits, whole grains and healthy fats.
A study published last year found that swapping to a Mediterranean diet from the normal Western diet can help you live longer, and the earlier in your life you start, the better.
- And finally, You take part in meaningful activities
Research shows that people aged 50 and over who have a sense of purpose are in better spirits and live longer.
Experts believe taking part in activities that matter to you may reduce your stress level, lessening inflammation in the body, which is associated with health problems such as cardiovascular disease.