The CBC's Steve Fischer spoke with many seniors, doctors and health experts as he learned what it takes to stay "forever young."

The latest Statistics Canada report stated, from 2007 to 2009, the average life expectancy in Canada was 79 years old for men and 83 for women.

By 2031, the average life expectancy in Canada is projected to rise to 82 for men and 86 for women as the gap between genders narrows, according to Statistics Canada.

There are various ways to keep your mind and body active and healthy as you move into your later years.

Here's a list of 10 tips from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute to stay healthy as you age:

• Don't smoke. If you do, quit. If you're not ready to quit, email quitsmoking@ottawaheart.ca or call 613-761-4753 for help.
• Know your "numbers:" blood pressure, cholesterol level, weight and waist measurement.
• If you want to lose weight, aim to lose five to 10 per cent of your current weight (improves your blood pressure and heart health).
• Check belt size. For women, less than 88 cm is best. For men, less than 102 cm.
• Eat seven to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
• Aim for 10,000 steps a day (wear pedometer as monitor). For example, walk for 30 minutes each day.
• Find time each day to laugh, relax and reflect.
• Limit alcohol consumption to two servings a day for men (14 drinks a week) or one serving a day for women (nine drinks a week).
• Know your family heart history.
• Take salt out of your diet.

There are also numerous services across Ottawa to help seniors stay active when it might seem more difficult to do so. You can click on any links to the right for more services for seniors in Ottawa.