I spent a year interviewing America's oldest workers. Here are their 5 tips for staying healthy and active.

"This year, I spoke to nearly 200 Americans 80 and older who still work. Their advice for living into their 80s and 90s often wasn't going to the gym religiously or maintaining a strict diet. While most of those still working considered themselves "healthy," only a handful devoted hours each week to strenuous exercise beyond walking. The secret to a long and healthy life, they said, was mental stimulation, having a strong social network, and finding ways to feel young."

"While a few said that working was a detriment to their quality of life, most said they felt working may have added a few extra years to their lives, even if they had no choice but to work. Dozens of researchers on aging and work shared similar thoughts, emphasizing that purpose and drive were the attitudes that kept older workers engaged and thriving."

Nearly 200 Americans aged 80 and older who still work described lifestyles and attitudes linked to longevity. Most considered themselves healthy but few engaged in strenuous exercise beyond walking. Mental stimulation, strong social networks, routines, staying active, and feeling young were cited as keys to long, healthy lives. A minority found working detrimental to quality of life, but most believed work may have added years. Dozens of aging researchers emphasized that purpose, drive, optimism, and engagement help older workers remain active, engaged, and thriving.

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