When it comes to retirement, there’s significant peace of mind that comes from knowing you have cash to count on. One thing you can do for yourself and your loved ones? Start an IRA now, advises Jean Berko Gleason, a BU College of Arts & Sciences professor emerita of psychological and brain sciences. Even saving just a little bit at a time now is far preferable to scrambling to put money away later—and more effective too.

Why does that matter? Not getting enough sleep has been associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and types of dementia, according to Thomas T. Perls, a BU Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine professor of medicine, who studies the aging secrets of centenarians.

A balanced diet is helpful no matter what age you are. Perls recommends a Mediterranean diet to help fend off aging-related diseases and cancer. Also helpful if you want to live a long, healthy life? Going easy on the red meat.

Sure, everyone has their vices. But smoking, for one, has notoriously terrible health outcomes—as does drinking alcohol. And gambling or binge shopping? That’s money you won’t have for your retirement years. Dropping your bad habits now is critical to longevity and stability later in life, Perls says.

Worry less about a number on the scale and more about what makes you feel your best, Perls says. If you can fit in 30 minutes of exercise a day, 5 times a week—mixing core work, cardio, and strength training—you’re set. 

Some research suggests that doing preventive cognitive therapy—aka brain exercise—helps keep your mind in good shape. When you’re an older adult, that could help you manage daily tasks and maintain your independence longer. Regular socializing can also help keep your brain engaged and healthy, says Magdalen A. Balz (Sargent’09), a BU Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences clinical assistant professor of speech, language, and hearing sciences. So, perhaps now is the time to develop a crossword habit, or find a brainy hobby like chess to enjoy—with friends.

Growth—the mental and emotional kind, that is—should be an eternal pursuit. Keep an open mind as you make your way through the world. And, once you enter your older years, consider keeping your circle large: “Intergenerational relationships are a gift,” Balz says. “Older adults have valuable wisdom to share with younger adults, and younger adults bring new and novel ideas to conversations.”

Speaking of relationships: safe, strong friendships that you can count on are critical, says Merry White, a College of Arts & Sciences professor of anthropology. You don’t need to see each other every day, but people who will show up when it counts are priceless.

Want to be sure you’ll have fun in your golden years? One simple thing to do now—and keep doing—is to cultivate a variety of skills and hobbies, White says. She recommends curating a set of “adventure” skills—like hiking or camping—and “sedentary” skills—like pottery or cooking—that you can enjoy both by yourself and with friends.

Socioeconomic inequalities like unequal earning or access to housing can compound with age, says Judith Gonyea, a BU School of Social Work professor of social research. Consider getting—and staying—involved with equity-focused nonprofits or advocacy groups in your community to help make sure that everyone around you can enjoy their 80s too.