Doctors have named 9 habits that can prolong active life after 50

If you're over 50, you've probably made New Year's promises to yourself more than once - and you may not have been able to keep all of them. Many people eventually give up on resolutions altogether. But experts are confident: well-chosen goals, especially those related to health, still make sense.

University of Michigan experts, based on the National Healthy Aging Survey, have prepared a list of nine simple and realistic resolutions that can noticeably improve the quality of life after 50 - without radical changes and overload.

1. Fill out a medical power of attorney

One of the most important but often delayed steps is to complete a medical power of attorney (Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care). This document allows you to specify in advance the person who will make medical decisions for you if you are temporarily or permanently unable to do so yourself.

According to the survey, only 27 per cent of people over 50 have such a document, although it only takes a few minutes to complete. Experts emphasise that this reduces stress for loved ones and helps avoid conflict situations in the future.

2. Making the home safer for "aging in place"

Most people want to live in their home for as long as possible, rather than move. However, less than half of people over 65 have prepared their homes for age-related changes.

Simple measures - handrails in the bathroom, good lighting, removing carpets, replacing round handles with lever handles - can significantly reduce the risk of falls. More serious steps include threshold-less showers, a ground-floor bedroom or a barrier-free entrance to the house.

3. Socialise with friends more often

Social connections have a direct impact on health. Although 75 per cent of people over 50 say they have close friends, the desire to make new acquaintances is expressed by just as many.

Regular walks, shared meals, trips or even online meetings can help reduce feelings of loneliness and increase emotional wellbeing. Interestingly, almost half of older people are friends with people from other generations.

4. Learn to recognise AI fakes and scams

As artificial intelligence advances, fakes, 'dipfakes' and fraudulent schemes are on the rise. 81% of people over 50 would like to become more aware of the risks associated with AI, but many aren't sure they can tell the difference between fake and real information.

Experts advise taking basic training courses and using materials from trusted organisations to avoid becoming a victim of fraud and spreading misinformation.

5. Prepare for extreme weather and power outages

Three out of four people over the age of 50 have experienced extreme weather events in the past two years. Yet few people have discussed with their doctors how to prepare for such situations.

It's important to think ahead about a stockpile of medications, alternative power sources for medical devices, emergency contacts and a basic set of water and food. Even steps such as installing emergency notification apps can make a difference.

6. Think in advance about safe driving

Most people over the age of 65 continue to drive regularly. However, few plan for the moment when driving may become unsafe.

Experts recommend documenting future driving cessation in advance by appointing a trusted person to make these decisions. They also emphasise the dangers of driving after using cannabis - even after a couple of hours.

7. Find out about support services for older people

Two-thirds of people over 50 are unaware that there are regional seniors' agencies that provide counselling, support programmes and social services.

Even if you don't need help yet, it's helpful to know where to turn in advance - for yourself or a loved one.

8. Get more benefit from doctor's visits

Almost all people after the age of 50 see a doctor at least once a year, but they don't always make the most of this visit.

Research has shown that being accompanied by a relative or friend helps to better understand the doctor's recommendations and reduce anxiety. Patients also have the right to request additional conditions, from help with mobility to easier access to information about treatment.

9. Review aspirin intake

Many people continue to take aspirin "just in case" to prevent a heart attack or stroke. However, current recommendations have changed: daily use is only justified in the presence of cardiovascular disease.

Without such indications, aspirin may increase the risk of internal bleeding. Experts advise discussing this issue with a doctor.