Science reveals 5 ways Catholics can become SuperAgers

Retirement marks the beginning of a new adventure — one full of leisurely mornings, quieter schedules, and the chance to rediscover what truly matters. You may be wondering: How can I not only enjoy these years but thrive in them? Well, a fascinating discovery from Northwestern University offers an inspiring clue.

After a 25-year investigation, researchers found that certain individuals in their 80s — nicknamed “SuperAgers” — possess remarkable memory skills rivaling those decades younger. What unites them isn’t a strict exercise routine or a special diet, but rather their deep commitment to relationships and community — a rich social life shared by all studied SuperAgers, regardless of how differently they lived otherwise.

Scientists suggest that being part of a loving circle — whether that’s family, friends, or faith community — does more than lift our spirits. It may actually protect the brain, helping to preserve memory and attention while shielding against the effects of stress and loneliness. (We can start to appreciate how religious communities boast some impressively older members!)

With this in mind, below you'll find five essential ways for Catholics to live a long life that is full of meaning, with hopefully much joy along the way:

Make friendship a priority. Schedule weekly coffee with that old friend, say “yes” to parish group outings, or join a local club for the hobby you enjoy. It could be a Bible study, a gardening club, a senior center class, or simply regular phone calls with family and former colleagues. The key is regular, meaningful interaction. SuperAgers show that engaging with others keeps you young at heart and sharp in mind. And on days you can’t meet in person, a cheerful phone call or video chat with a grandchild can brighten your mood and exercise your memory.

There may not be one “perfect” exercise or crossword puzzle that guarantees SuperAger status, but staying physically and mentally active still does wonders for your well-being. Retirement is the ideal time to take those leisurely morning walks or join a low-impact exercise class with friends. Not only does a bit of movement boost your mood and health, it often comes with a side of socializing.

Keeping your mind active is just as important: read books, learn a new skill, do the daily Wordle, or tackle a new hobby. Even better, do it with others -- start a book club or take a community class. Staying curious and engaged helps build “brain reserves” that keep memory strong, and in company, it brings even greater joy.

One beautiful way to stay connected and energized in retirement is to share your time and talents with others. Whether it’s volunteering at your parish, mentoring a younger person, or cooking a meal for a neighbor, serving others gives a profound sense of purpose. Furthermore, helping usually means interacting, which circles back to the benefits of connection. As Christ himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Giving your time not only blesses others, but also keeps your own mind and heart full of life.

Faith is a lifelong source of strength, and retirement can be a time to deepen it. In our working years, prayer and spiritual life often had to be squeezed into busy schedules; now you have the gift of time to spend with God. Start the day with quiet prayer, join a Bible study, or go to daily Mass when you can. These aren’t just pious practices – they also gently reduce stress and bring peace.

There’s something profoundly life-giving about gathering with others in faith, singing, praying, and supporting each other through life’s ups and downs. Cultivating a grateful heart -- counting your blessings, big and small -- has been linked to greater happiness and health. When stress comes knocking, answer it with prayer and a call to a friend.

Aging well has much to do with attitude. The happiest SuperAgers seem to share a positive, resilient outlook on life. They don’t dwell on what they’ve lost with age; instead, they celebrate what they’ve gained -- wisdom, experience, memories, and freedom to spend time on what matters most. Rather than fighting the passage of time, treasure it.

Laugh at yourself, let go of grudges, and focus on what truly brings you joy. Staying young at heart isn’t about pretending to be 40 again; it’s about embracing all that you are at 60, 70, 80 and beyond -- and finding beauty in it.

In the end, the true “SuperAger” secret isn’t a secret at all -- it’s love. Love in the form of friendship and community; love that you give and receive through service; love grounded in faith in God’s plan for you. By cherishing these connections and keeping a grateful heart, you’re not just adding years to your life, but life to your years. So as you embark on retirement, remember: the golden years can shine even brighter when they are shared.