Age should never dictate how you live your life, yet society often suggests certain activities are “off-limits” once you reach 70. Yet, this stage of life can be one of excitement as long as you don’t let other people’s opinions hold you back. These are 18 things people may expect you to give up—but you absolutely shouldn’t.
Starting a New Career
There’s often a perception that starting a new career is something best left to younger people, but why should age limit ambition? At 70, you’ve accumulated a wealth of experience, skills, and wisdom that can be channelled into a new venture, so you could be turning a lifelong passion into a business.
Travelling Alone
Solo travel is a brilliant way to connect with yourself and the world, no matter your age, and travelling alone lets you move at your own pace and soak up every moment without compromise.
It’s also an opportunity to meet new people, as solo travellers often find it easier to connect with locals and fellow adventurers.
Dressing How You Want
You don’t need to “tone it down” and stick to dull, conservative styles once you get older, because fashion is a way to express yourself, and you should wear whatever makes you feel good. Bold colours, funky patterns, or even edgy leather jackets aren’t reserved for a certain age group—they’re for anyone with confidence.
Going to Concerts or Festivals
There’s something magical about live music, and it’s not something you should give up just because you’ve passed a milestone birthday. A small acoustic gig at a local pub or a massive festival has a way of connecting people and stirring emotions, so dance, sing, or just soak in the atmosphere—whatever you enjoy.
Joining a Sports Team
Being part of a team not only keeps your body moving but also strengthens your social circle, helping you stay connected to others who share your interests; plus, the camaraderie of being on a team can lift your spirits like nothing else.
Plenty of sports now offer modified versions tailored for older participants, like walking football or low-impact tennis.
Learning New Technology
There’s a tired stereotype that older generations can’t keep up with technology, but this is your chance to prove them wrong. Picking up skills like using social media, video calling, or even dabbling in coding opens up a world of possibilities, and you can stay connected with family, find new hobbies, and even rediscover old ones in a modern way.
Taking Up Adventure Sports
If you’ve ever dreamed of skydiving, zip-lining, or even scuba diving, there’s no reason why your 70s can’t be the time to tick those items off your bucket list. Sure, it might take some extra planning or preparation, but the thrill of doing something out of the ordinary will remind you that you’re still capable of amazing things.
Going Back to School
Whether you’re taking a university course or joining an evening class, the act of learning keeps your mind sharp and opens doors to new perspectives, and studying furthermore allows you to engage with ideas you might not have encountered otherwise. Going back to school later in life can be incredibly rewarding.
Dating and Falling in Love
Who said romance has a timeline? There’s no expiration date on the joy of connecting with another person, and the possibility of love is always there. Relationships as an older adult can be especially meaningful because you know what you want and bring a ton of experience to the table—and those butterflies don’t care how old you are.
Running a Marathon
Running a marathon in your 70s might sound ambitious, but it’s entirely doable with the right preparation and mindset while training for a marathon gives you a sense of purpose. It also builds physical stamina and proves that you’re capable of tackling enormous challenges.
Dancing All Night
There’s a unique joy in dancing, regardless of whether it’s in public or at home in your living room; age shouldn’t be a barrier to letting loose and feeling the rhythm of music. Dancing is great exercise, it boosts your mood, and it’s a wonderful way to socialise, so put on your favourite tunes and hit the dance floor.
Volunteering Abroad
Programmes designed for older volunteers often value the experience and skills you bring to the table, so imagine immersing yourself in a different culture while contributing to a cause you’re passionate about. It’s a win-win situation that leaves a positive impact on both you and the community you’re helping.
Trying New Cuisines
Every new flavour you try is a story, a culture, and an experience, all wrapped up in a single bite, which is why there’s no age limit on trying out new cuisine.
Food is one of life’s simplest pleasures, and experimenting with new cuisines can be an adventure in itself, especially if you both cook them at home and eat out.
Riding a Motorbike
Many older riders say motorcycling gives them a sense of freedom and adventure that’s hard to replicate, like riding through the countryside or along the coast, and it’s an incredible way to experience the world from a different perspective. It’s also an exciting new alternative if you’re bored of driving in a car.
Getting Tattoos
Tattoos are a form of personal expression, and they don’t have an age limit; in fact, many people find that getting a tattoo later in life is a way to celebrate their journey, mark an important memory, or just try something they’ve always been curious about.
The artwork can serve as a visual reminder of who you are and the life you’ve lived.
Gardening on a Grand Scale
Gardening doesn’t have to stop at growing a few flowers or vegetables, so why not think bigger and create a stunning landscape or start a community garden? Large-scale gardening projects not only keep you physically active but also allow you to express your creativity and make a lasting impact.
Moving to a New City
If you’re considering relocating later in life, it might seem daunting, but it can also be a thrilling fresh start, and it doesn’t matter if you’re downsizing to a cosy seaside town or moving closer to family. A change of scenery can bring new opportunities and perspectives, so embrace the adventure of settling into a new community.
Speaking Your Mind
There’s no reason to hold back when you’ve got decades of wisdom to share, especially if you’re helping with mentoring younger generations or simply standing up for what you believe in—your voice matters. Sharing your thoughts can inspire change and show others that age doesn’t diminish insight.