What helps keep you young? That's entertainment!
More than 61 million U.S. adults age 50 and older attend movies. Almost 70% participate in clubs and organizations and another 30% attend church weekly -- or almost every week. Those social connections are essential for both emotional and physical well-being.
But did you know that they could also make your ActualAge three (or more) years younger than your chronological age? That's the finding of our data (published more than 25 years ago), and it's now reconfirmed by a study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health that looked at the museum, theater and movie-going habits of almost 1,900 adults.
The research showed that every time you engage in such activities, your body and your age clock benefit. That's because mind-stimulating, socially interactive activities strengthen personal connections, encourage healthier lifestyle habits, and support mental health, all of which can help slow down physical aging on a cellular and emotional level.
If you're not up for the price of a theater ticket, consider social groups at your local Y, church or senior center. Volunteer to help with organizations that benefit your community. Have friends over to watch a movie on TV or streaming. Join a book club. There are already about 13 million folks in these groups, so you'll likely find one near you.
Why do such activities give you a younger ActualAge? You laugh, feel awe, and are distracted. That dispels stress -- and stress is the No. 1 ager. For more info on how to cope with harmful stressors, preorder my book "YOU: Getting Older, the Owner's Manual to Your Golden Years."
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at drmikerealage@gmail.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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