Most people who stay remarkably sharp well into their 70s and beyond tend to share a handful of habits that keep their minds engaged and their emotions resilient.

While genetics certainly play a role, the choices we make still have a significant impact on our well-being as we age. The good news is that these habits don't have to be complicated. They're simple, intentional practices that help people stay curious and flexible in their everyday lives.

Julia Zavalishina | Shutterstock

Seniors who stay sharp as they age never stop feeding their curiosity. Whether it's learning a skill or picking up a hobby, they regularly give their brain something fresh to work on. Challenging the mind in new ways helps strengthen memory and keeps their thinking flexible.

Learning isn't just good for the brain, either. It also boosts confidence and provides a sense of purpose in life. Personal growth doesn't have an age limit. Novel experiences are a simple but meaningful way to keep your mind young.

RELATED: 7 Daily Habits That Slowly Wear Down Your Brain After 50, According To Research

People who age effortlessly understand that staying connected is just as important as staying healthy. They make time for family and friends because they bring joy and a sense of purpose. 

Strong relationships do more than just make life enjoyable. They also offer support when times are hard. Having trusted individuals to lean on can reduce feelings of loneliness, which is linked to healthier aging.  Even small moments of connection can have lasting impacts on emotional well-being.

Physical exercise is an important component of healthy aging. Daily movement helps increase blood flow to the brain and maintains overall cognitive health. The goal isn't intense workouts, but to find small ways to stay active consistently. Gardening, walking, swimming, or dancing could all count.

Exercise of any kind is known to boost mental health. It reduces stress and raises energy levels, making it easier to stay optimistic and be engaged with life. 

RELATED: Smart & Happy People Usually Stop Tolerating 10 Specific Things As They Get Older

Perfect Wave | Shutterstock

Stress is a normal part of life. However, when it builds up unchecked, it can take a toll on the body, including the brain. Rather than pretending everything is fine, older adults with emotional resilience find healthy ways to process what they're going through.

They might talk to a trusted friend or take a yoga class. Whatever their favorite stress-relief method is, they can recognize when something feels overwhelming and find an outlet before it gets worse.

Good sleep is essential for healthy aging. Too little or too much sleep has been shown to cause faster aging in the body and brain, which is why finding that Goldilocks amount of rest  is an important part of long-term cognitive health.

They make their sleep a priority, no matter what. While occasional restless nights are bound to happen to everyone, adults who protect their sleep habits often find they're better equipped to think clearly and keep a more positive outlook. 

People who never seem to lose their spark always find a reason to get up each morning. They have a hobby or activity that provides direction and gives them something to continue working towards. 

Finding a purpose in life helps seniors stay resilient during major changes. Health challenges or an empty nest can leave some feeling disconnected from the world, but it doesn't have to be that way. Life can be fulfilling at any age.

LightField Studios | Shutterstock

Individuals who retain their cognitive health after 70 haven't learned everything they want to know. They remain open to new ideas and different perspectives that might come their way. 

That willingness to adapt helps keep the mind and emotions flexible. Instead of dwelling on how things used to be, they focus on new experiences. Lifelong growth comes from staying open.

RELATED: Highly Intelligent People Usually Do 10 Things Each Day To Keep Their Edge As They Get Older

Kayla Asbach is a writer with a bachelor's degree from the University of Central Florida. She covers relationships, psychology, self-help, pop culture, and human interest topics.