Staying healthy and active are the keys to aging gracefully and avoiding chronic illnesses. In fact, many health complications are avoidable through preventative measures and smart habits. This means you should establish a healthy lifestyle at an early age and stick with it as you celebrate each passing year. Keep reading to learn more about staying healthy as you age.

Healthy Habits

• Eat a balanced diet that is low in saturated fat and includes five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day.

• Engage in a regular exercise routine at least five days per week. Physical fitness contributes to the following:

1. Maintaining a healthy weight

2. Having healthy bones, muscles and joints

3. Reducing anxiety and depression symptoms

4. Relieving arthritis pain

5. Reducing the risk of heart disease

• Do not smoke or use tobacco. Tobacco increases your risk of heart disease, cancer and stroke significantly compared to those individuals that do not light up.

Staying Positive

Having a healthy, positive attitude can go a long way in extending your lifespan and boosting your overall mood. To help yourself stay in good spirits:

• Maintain good social connections and stay engaged with your peers.

• Try to have positive self-esteem.

• View life as a meaningful journey.

The Importance of a Fitness Routine

By age 75, one-third of all men and half of all women will not engage in any physical activity. By not exercising, they are losing muscle mass and increasing their risk of developing chronic diseases. However, there is no time like the present, even at a golden age, to start a fitness routine such as taking a walk, lifting light weights or taking a water aerobics class.