Cook your own food. It’s unrealistic to think you’ll never go to a supermarket or a restaurant, but people who cook their own meals at home, using whole — not processed — foods are leaner and healthier.

Plant a garden. Grow your own vegetables if you can. Even if all you can manage is an herb garden, you’ll be likely to eat healthier.

Remain physically active. People in other cultures tend to be more active than we are, whether because they are walking to the market, doing household activities, or going out to dance. Their pace doesn’t slow, even when they get older.

Stay mentally active. Read books, play cards, go to lectures, learn new skills such as a foreign language or a musical instrument. Keep your brain engaged and you’ll feel younger.

Live predictably. People tend to equate this with being boring, but that’s not the case. Your body thrives on routine; it needs to know you’ll be going to sleep and getting up at the same time, for instance.

Don’t move away. I’ve seen it over and over again — a person retires and moves across the country. Suddenly, they begin losing their way. Everything is different. I find those are the people who develop dementia more often.

Fast occasionally. Fasting as a way of life has been demonstrated in animal studies to boost longevity.

Be positive. Look for the good in people, practice gratitude, and foster a positive outlook.

Cultivate community. Whether it’s a church, synagogue, or other type of community, spend time with people whose values you share.