MINDSET MATTERS

People are as old as they feel – with those who report feeling younger than their age tending to live more active lives for longer. Commit to a more youthful mindset.

1 DON’T TALK YOURSELF OLD

Stop using phrases such as “I feel ancient”, or “When you get to my age...”. Negative language has been shown to limit people’s motivation and prevent them from trying new things.

2 BE CURIOUS ABOUT THE WORLD AGAIN

People who stay active into their 90s and beyond tend to share an undiminished curiosity about the world and new things. Explore a subject you’ve never learnt about before, a book genre, cuisine or music you know nothing about.

3 AVOID NEGATIVITY

Being around people who constantly criticise or moan can reduce your enjoyment of life. Negative personality types have been found to

have shorter “telomeres” – the caps on DNA strands that protect chromosomes from age-related damage. Shorter telomeres are linked to faster ageing. Surround yourself with upbeat people.

4 TRAIN YOURSELF TO BE MORE OPTIMISTIC

Optimists recover faster from illness and may live longer. Older people were up to 35% less likely to die during the five year study University College London if they felt happy, excited and content on a typical day. Daily positive affirmations such as “This will be a fun experience” or “I can do this” will change your thought process. This can boost self-esteem and fend off depression.

5 REDISCOVER YOUR INNER CHILD

“Notice how small children get so much joy out of very simple things and try to do the same for an instant brain anti-ager,” suggests psychologist Dr Meg Arroll. Taking the time to savour a flavour or that special song can boost your mood.