A report from the Population Reference Bureau states that the growth of the population ages 65 and older is one of the “most significant demographic trends in the United States.” Think about it: the massive demographic group called Baby Boomers (generally born between 1946 and 1964) is already in, or heading toward, their senior citizen years. What’s even more impressive, many of their parents are also still alive, and many of them are still active. Who would have believed that more than a generation ago, people in this age range were viewed as feeble and incapable of taking care of themselves, whose only hope was to retire from a job where they’d spent 40 years and, sadly, just get older and sicker?

Nowadays, our senior citizens have so many more choices in how they can take care of themselves, retiring much later and staying active in their neighborhoods, churches, and communities. No longer content to settling back and letting life slip by, they’re exercising more, eating better, and taking care of themselves.

If you’re in, or heading toward, the “silver and golden years,” here are some ways you can keep vital:

1. Make a Care Plan
Although it’s nearly impossible to know exactly what your health will look like as you age - and therefore, what kind of healthcare you’ll need to help you stay vital - it’s good to have a plan. First, you’ll need to know how you’ll pay for it. If you’re not already signed up for a Medicare plan, it’s worth doing some research to see which coverage option is right for you. Some plans cover more than just prescriptions, and may include options for dental and vision care. Keep in mind that the Medicare Open Enrollment Period runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, so plan to sign up accordingly.

If your plan is to age in place, look into home modifications that will help you do so comfortably. However, it’s worth noting that as many as 70 percent of seniors will require some degree of long-term care at some point in their golden years, so it’s something to think about planning for way in advance of when you need it. Speak with family members about the possibility of moving in with them someday - odds are, your adult children have probably already thought about this possibility. If living with a family member isn’t an option, look into assisted living or nursing home facilities in your area to get an idea of their pricing and amenities.

2. Watch the Medications and Alcohol
As you age, your body’s tolerance for alcohol lowers, which means, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, you can experience the effects of alcohol more quickly. According to Paula Span in The New York Times, alcohol abuse is rising among the senior population. What’s more, seniors might also experience health problems that include diabetes, high blood pressure, memory problems, and mood disorders. Of course, many seniors are also taking prescription medications for those and other issues. Seniors who do drink should limit themselves to two per day and no more than seven per week. You also need to recognize the signs of alcohol abuse in you spouse, your friends, and especially yourself. Also be careful of abusing your medication if you take any. Like alcohol, prescription drug addiction is a problem among some seniors. Only take your medication in your prescribed doses. If you’re worried you have a problem, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are many rehabilitation programs designed specifically for seniors.

3. Get Back into Your Body and Mind
Keeping yourself physically and mentally fit is essential. For both, consider learning yoga and meditation. Why those two?  Yoga can make you physically aware of your body (at any age), while meditation can make you more mentally aware (also at any age). Among its benefits, yoga increases your flexibility, improves your balance, and helps lower blood pressure. Meanwhile, meditation helps memory, improves attitude, and can help reduce stress. You can combine the two to help yourself become physically refreshed and mentally positive and focused. Plus, you can do both right in your own home.

4. Stay Passionate
While that doesn’t necessarily mean romantic passion (though that can be important, too), it’s good for you to be passionate about something. Whether it’s a hobby, continuing your education, or serving in your church, find something that makes your soul feel alive. Many retired businesspeople and executives, for example, mentor new startups through such organizations as the Service Council of Retired Executives. Some even take their hobbies and turn them into small businesses. The point is, don’t just sit back and let life happen. Go out and make it happen.

Long gone are the days when senior citizens had few choices other than to settle back and let life finish. Nowadays, if you make a healthcare plan, watch your intake of alcohol and your medications, keep your body and mind active, and stay passionate about something, you can be in control of your physical and mental health and live the fullest life possible.