Self-discipline requires resisting momentary temptations to get closer to your long-term goals. While the adage of teaching an old dog new tricks being notoriously difficult prevails, discipline is something that these fit over-60s have had a longer time than most to get their head (and body) around.

“Sure, younger minds may have an abundance of dopamine – the neurotransmitter associated with creating new and rewarding behaviours,” says Dr Rachael Molitor, a chartered psychologist. “But older adults can lean on life experience and a potentially deeper breadth of knowledge from experts on long-term health.

The Telegraph London