We Asked, You Answered: What Are Your Favorite Healthy Habits?

In August of 2025, we asked on Facebook, “What are some habits you practice to help keep your mind sharp?” The post received more than 13,000 responses — and our readers shared lots of great ideas.

One thing we learned: A lot of you love playing games like sudoku and crossword puzzles, which is terrific. Make sure you mix in other activities, though, because the key to engaging your brain is to keep challenging yourself to learn new things.

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If you can involve friends or family in your games, you’re more likely to reap the many brain benefits of socializing, too. As one user wrote, “I play Mahjong with friends every Monday.” Maybe it’s time to start hosting a regular game night at your place?

Keep learning 

The comments also made it clear that you’ve gotten the memo to keep exploring new hobbies. One person summed it up perfectly: “I’m 81 and feel I’m never too old to learn!” From playing instruments to fixing and building things, the fabulous 50+ crowd has a wide variety of interests.

“I recite favorite poems and Shakespeare passages, and I also write poems about silly things. I also paint pictures,” one wrote. Another talked about “working on sports cars, [and] repairing and troubleshooting vintage radio equipment.”

Keep moving

And whether it’s dancing, gardening, walking, swimming or another form of exercise, many of you pointed out the importance of staying active. One reader mentioned they enjoy “going for a walk every day to capture pictures of nature and eventually painting what I’ve seen.” That’s an excellent way to combine the benefits of regular exercise, time spent outdoors and your creativity.

As you’d expect from social media, some commenters used the opportunity to get a laugh.

“Keeping my mind sharp? Uh, let’s see, hmm, what was the question again?” one user joked. But even tongue-in-cheek responses spurred meaningful discussions about the importance of humor and a positive attitude.

“Find something to admire each day and something to laugh about each day,” one reader suggested.

What are your favorite healthy habits? If you need ideas, learn more about Staying Sharp’s six pillars of brain health and the many lifestyle choices you can make to support your brain and your mental well-being.