People who still look young in their 60s and beyond usually adopt these 7 daily habits

People often ask about the secret to staying youthful, and it’s easy to see why. 

Deep down, most of us hope to look and feel our best well into our 60s and beyond.

It’s not just about chasing a wrinkle-free face; it’s about preserving that spark of vitality that keeps us moving, laughing, and loving life to the fullest.

I’ve been intrigued by the ways individuals manage to maintain that fresh glow over the years. Through my counseling practice and personal encounters, I’ve observed some common threads in the daily routines of those who seem to defy the clock. 

And while there’s no magic potion that guarantees eternal youth, I’ve found that adopting just a few purposeful habits each day can make a world of difference.

1. They keep moving

One of the biggest takeaways from Dan Buettner’s research into the Blue Zones—those special corners of the world where people regularly live into their 90s and beyond—is that daily activity doesn’t have to look like an intense workout. 

Instead, movement is woven into day-to-day life, whether it’s walking to the market, tending a garden, or simply taking the stairs instead of an elevator. 

Aside from its obvious physical benefits, movement is also a proven mood booster, which can indirectly keep your face looking brighter and less fatigued. Stress ages us, so regular movement becomes a powerful anti-aging tactic on multiple levels.

2. They nourish themselves with a balanced diet

Seeing someone in their 70s with glowing skin and boundless energy never fails to hammer it home for me: what we eat shows up everywhere, from how we feel to how we look. 

It’s not just about cutting carbs or counting calories, though. It’s about putting a variety of vitamins and nutrients into your body, so your cells get what they need to repair and thrive.

I once visited a friend’s grandmother in Italy—she was 72 and had the most radiant, supple-looking skin I’ve ever seen on someone her age. She wasn’t chugging spinach smoothies all day, but her traditional Mediterranean meals were rich in vegetables, healthy fats, and lean proteins. Even her occasional red wine was savored in moderation. 

As nutrition experts often emphasize, a balanced diet reduces the risk of chronic diseases and supports overall wellbeing. And when your body is healthier on the inside, it shows on the outside too.

3. They prioritize quality sleep

I know it’s easier said than done, especially if you’re juggling a dozen responsibilities. But if there’s one thing I keep telling my clients (and keep reminding myself), it’s that restorative sleep can do wonders for both mind and body. 

People who manage to look vibrant well into their golden years seem to have mastered the art of getting consistent, quality rest.

One older neighbor of mine, in her early 70s, told me she’s religious about turning off all electronic devices an hour before bedtime. She’ll sip on a calming tea, do a few stretches, and slip into bed with a paper book in hand. 

When I see her in the morning, she’s always ready for a cheerful chat, and you can see that freshness in her eyes. 

Good sleep habits reduce dark circles, help maintain a healthy weight, and support the body’s repair processes at night. All of that adds up to a more youthful glow.

4. They practice mindful stress management

As I mentioned earlier, stress is a huge aging factor. Chronic stress triggers a flood of hormones in your body that can contribute to wrinkles, dull skin, and a tired appearance over time.

Of course, it’s inevitable—it’s part of being human. But the people who maintain a youthful spark usually don’t let their stressors run the show. 

They have routines or techniques to handle life’s daily curveballs, whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or even a simple breathing exercise. 

I’ve personally found that doing a few minutes of guided meditation after a particularly challenging counseling session helps me reset my mindset.

The folks at the Mayo Clinic stand behind this, noting that stress-relieving activities can improve mood and overall health. I’ve met people who look decades younger than their age, and one thing they have in common is a well-honed ability to take life’s chaos in stride.

5. They stay socially connected

The research is clear on this: meaningful connections with others can keep you feeling and looking young. 

Isolation tends to accelerate the aging process in so many ways, both mentally and physically. 

In contrast, there’s a light in the eyes of people who invest time in genuine relationships. Whether they’re meeting old friends for coffee or volunteering at a local community center, the social engagement they get offers a sense of belonging and purpose.

When you’re sharing memories, laughs, and sometimes tears, you’re exercising your emotional muscles. It’s like a daily dose of vitality. 

I even see it in my own life—when I’m surrounded by people who care about me, I feel more alive, more present, and yes, I’d like to think, more youthful.

6. They invest in gentle skincare and sun protection

I’m a huge believer in the power of a simple, consistent skincare routine. People who have that dewy, youthful glow into their 60s and 70s aren’t necessarily the ones with jam-packed bathroom counters full of pricey, complicated products. 

More often, they’ve figured out what works for their skin—usually a mild cleanser, a good moisturizer, and the most important step: sun protection.

The sun, lovely as it is, can be one of our skin’s worst enemies in terms of premature aging. 

I’ve had clients in their late 60s who have lesser signs of sun damage than some folks half their age, all because they’ve faithfully worn sunscreen for years. 

A hat, some sunscreen, and a pair of sunglasses can make a massive difference in preserving that elasticity and brightness. 

That habit alone can help maintain a more youthful appearance, year after year.

7. They keep learning and stay curious

I’ve saved a big one until last, friends. People who continue to look young in body and spirit often stay engaged with life. They don’t close themselves off to new experiences or ideas, even if they’ve been around for six decades or more. 

I’ve seen retired folks who pick up painting, take online courses, or join book clubs. There’s a vibrant energy that comes from nourishing your mind with fresh perspectives.

When your brain is engaged, you often feel more motivated to take care of yourself physically as well. The synergy is incredible. A spark of curiosity keeps a person’s inner light glowing, and that absolutely affects how youthful they appear on the outside.

Final thoughts

Growing older is a privilege, but it doesn’t have to mean looking and feeling worn out. 

We can’t control our genetics, but we can guide our lifestyle choices. If you try incorporating these habits, you’ll likely notice changes not just in your appearance, but in your overall sense of joy and vitality.

I’ve learned so much from watching people who celebrate their 60s as a new chapter rather than a decline. They make aging look like an art form, and the best part is that anyone can adopt these habits. It’s never too late to start. 

Here’s to looking forward, staying curious, and shining brightly—no matter the age on your driver’s license.

Signing off.