Americans often gain more leisure time as they age, likely a natural consequence of fewer child-rearing responsibilities and, eventually, retirement from paid work. How we use that time has a huge impact on how we age, both mentally and physically.
A 2023 study of 700,000 U.S. veterans presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Nutrition found eight lifestyle habits that could add 24 years to your life, even if you adopt them in your 40s, 50s, and 60s. You likely won’t be surprised by the recommendations: exercise, eat well, don’t binge-drink alcohol, sleep well, don’t smoke, stay free of opioid addiction, keep stress down, and maintain a vibrant social life. But there’s even more you can do to live well longer: Incorporate some of these hobbies into your routine to maintain vital brain and body…