People who look significantly younger than they actually are into their 70s and beyond usually adopt these 7 daily habits

You’ve seen them—the 70-somethings who could easily pass for a decade or more younger, their energy and radiance defying the calendar. You might have thought “What’s their secret?”

Well, they’re probably not just lucky or blessed with great genes.

Looking and feeling youthful well into your golden years often comes down to the choices you make every single day. It’s not about expensive creams or complicated routines—it’s about habits that nourish the body, mind, and spirit.

Today, we’re uncovering seven such daily habits that people who seem to age in reverse swear by.

Ready to unlock the secrets of timeless living? 

Let’s dive in.

1) Eating a balanced diet

I’m going to kick things off a bit personally if you don’t mind. 

Over the years, my grandmother always maintained a youthful glow, even into her 80s. I remember asking her secret, expecting some obscure beauty regimen. 

But her answer was simple: a balanced diet.

She firmly believed in eating a variety of foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants. From leafy greens to colorful fruits, lean proteins to whole grains, she had it all on her plate.

Every time I visited, she would serve the most balanced meals. She would often say, “Your skin is a reflection of what you eat.”

Decades later, I see the wisdom in her words. And science backs it up, too. As noted by the folks at Columbia University Mailman of Public Health, research has shown that a healthy diet is associated with a reduced risk of dementia and a slower pace of aging. 

If you’re aiming to look younger as the years roll by, take a leaf out of my grandmother’s book: embrace balance in your meals. It might just be the secret to that youthful glow.

2) Exercising

You’ve probably heard it a thousand times: regular exercise is good for you. 

And it’s not just about maintaining a healthy weight or keeping your heart in check. It’s also about looking youthful as you age. As noted by Dr. Linda Fried, dean of Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, ​​ “Exercise is the closest thing we’ve found to a magic pill for combating the effects of aging.”

So whether it’s a brisk walk in the park, a sweaty session at the gym, or a calming yoga class, make sure to get moving. 

Even better, find an activity you love and make it part of your daily routine. 

3) Getting enough quality sleep

We all know that sleep is important, but how often do we actually treat it like the priority it is? 

For many of us, it’s the first thing to sacrifice when life gets busy.

Not these vibrant seniors, though. They know that quality rest is a cornerstone of looking and feeling youthful. A good night’s sleep doesn’t just recharge the mind—it restores the body, too, giving your skin time to repair, your muscles time to recover, and your energy levels a chance to reset.

And it’s not just common sense—research backs it up. One study revealed that a lack of sleep was “related to looking significantly more fatigued, having more hanging eyelids, redder eyes, more swollen eyes, darker circles under the eyes, more wrinkles/lines around the eyes.” In other words, skipping those precious hours can literally add years to your appearance.

Want to age gracefully? Make sleep non-negotiable. 

Stick to a bedtime routine, avoid screens before bed, and aim for seven to nine hours a night. It’s the simplest—and most restorative—habit you can adopt.

4) Limiting sun exposure

While a bit of sun can give you a healthy glow and dose of vitamin D, too much sun exposure can be detrimental to your skin. 

It’s no secret that the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays can cause premature aging, including wrinkles, age spots, and a leathery texture.

Those who look younger than their age have made it a habit to protect their skin from the sun. Whether it’s wearing a wide-brimmed hat, applying sunscreen regularly, or seeking shade during peak sun hours, they ensure their skin is shielded.

Next time you’re heading out on a sunny day, remember to practice sun safety. Your skin will thank you in the long run, and you’ll be following one of the key habits of those who look significantly younger than they actually are.

5) Staying positive

Positivity is more than just a mindset. It can actually influence how we age.

But don’t just take my word for it. Here’s what the folks at Harvard Health have to say about it:

“Research suggests optimistic people have a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and declines in lung capacity and function. Optimism is also associated with a lower risk of early death from cancer and infection”

Staying positive doesn’t mean ignoring life’s challenges. It means focusing on the good, practicing gratitude, and maintaining an optimistic outlook despite obstacles.

This doesn’t just impact your mental health; it can also affect your physical appearance. A positive attitude can lead to less stress, better sleep, and healthier lifestyle choices—all contributing factors to looking youthful.

Reflection: The essence of youth lies within

Aging gracefully isn’t about chasing the latest trends or relying on quick fixes—it’s about building habits that nurture your body, mind, and soul. 

The vibrant 70-somethings who defy the calendar prove that a balanced diet, regular exercise, quality sleep, sun protection, and a positive outlook aren’t just good practices—they’re the foundation of timeless living.

So, as you go about your day, consider the small changes you can make to embrace these habits. Start with one, and build from there. 

Remember, the choices you make today shape the future you’ll see in the mirror tomorrow.

Here’s to a radiant, youthful you—at any age!