Ever wonder how some people end up living super long and healthy lives? Researchers have long wondered, too, and have found several common qualities among people around the globe who have lived well into their 90s and even 100s. It’s not about money, miracle foods or supplements. Here’s what really matters:

A purpose and a passion

The Japanese call it ‘ ikigai’. It’s what gives someone a sense of purpose. Whether it’s working part-time, volunteering, helping care for grandchildren, gardening or anything else, it’s important to have a reason for getting up and going each day. It’s especially important after retirement when you no longer have to go to work each day. Being involved in a handful of enjoyable and meaningful activities in retirement can help you stay healthy and happy.

A strong social network

Friends are absolutely critical. A wide variety of studies show that maintaining strong social bonds – like those you have with friends and family – are a common factor in people who have reached the age of 100. Being with loved ones increased subjects’ neurochemicals, including dopamine and oxytocin. It’s believed that these chemicals enhance brain elasticity, which is often reduced with age. Loneliness and lack of social interaction, on the other hand, can hurt not only your happiness but your health. A study conducted by researchers at Brigham Young University found that both loneliness and social isolation can shorten a person’s life span. In-person contact is important, but so is keeping in touch with others via phone, e-mail, text message and social media. The bottom line: Make developing and maintaining friendships a priority and make sure some of that social interaction is in person.

A good night’s sleep

Harvard Business School studies have shown that people had less chance of suffering heart attacks and strokes if they slept more than seven hours a night. Too little sleep has also been linked to everything from heart disease to fatal accidents. Getting enough sleep is critical to our overall health as we age. If you have difficulty falling and staying asleep, talk to your physician. Making time for exercise during the day and getting more natural light and exposure to the outdoors can help you sleep better at night.

Activity and exercise

Exercise is extremely important for our health and happiness as we age. Walking is a great and low-impact way to get moving. Yoga, Tai chi, strength training and other types of physical activity can be a great way to maintain muscle tone, balance and bone density. Participating in an exercise class can be a great way to develop bonds with other like-minded people.

A pet (or two!)

Studies show pet ownership has a multitude of benefits to humans. It doesn’t matter which type of pet you have. It’s the process of caring for, interacting with and having physical contact with a furry or feathered friend.