4 Healthcare To-Dos for People 50+ (New year, healthier you!)
New year, healthier you! Try these 4 simple to-dos in 2023 to help you:
feel in control of your health
increase your knowledge of relevant medical terms and documents
help you start healthy habits
1. Create a relationship with your PCP (primary care physician)
Haven't seen your doctor in over a year? Time for a check-up! Don't have a primary physician? Time to make an appointment. Many of my patients don't see their doctor until something bad happens - a stroke, hyperglycemic episode, chest pain, etc... Be proactive. Update your medications, ask for relevant referrals (mental health, mammogram, ear nose and throat doctor, cardiologist, etc...), and know your numbers (ideal blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, etc...).
2. Check for insurance changes that can impact coverage of services, meds, or DME
You know those insurance policy letters that come in the mail that end up opened & forgotten underneath a pile of mail... only to be tossed weeks later. Actually check those letters (Or call your insurance's customer service)! Many insurance plan changes go into effect on the first of the year. These changes can potentially impact your deductible, services and meds covered, and more!
3. Create a plan for important medical papers: power of attorney, living will, DNR/DNI
People often wait until a hospitalization or life-changing event (like cancer or a dementia diagnosis), before they start thinking of these medical papers.
Create a plan now. Why?
you can make your own healthcare decisions while your memory and language is intact
you have a plan in place if you're ever hospitalized or need to go to a nursing home
your healthcare providers know your medical preferences
your healthcare providers know which caregiver/s to communicate with, in case of an emergency
Need a refresh on power of attorney, living will, and DNR/DNI? Click here to learn more about the purpose of these documents!
4. Begin a weekly physical & mental health routine
Did you know that regular physical activity has been associated with a reduced risk of the following chronic diseases:
osteoporosis
hypertension
stroke
cancer,
depression
anxiety
obesity
heart disease
type 2 diabetes
Start with 5 minutes a day. Dedicate those 5 minutes to you! Go for a walk, listen to relaxing music, write in a journal, play with your grandkids, lift 2lbs weights. I recommend you pick 3 days during the week to dedicate to your 5 minute wellness routine. When you're feeling ready to challenge your routine a bit, increase those 5 minutes to 10 then 15 and so on!
Need an extra reminder to complete these 4 healthcare to-dos? Become a Wellness Partner for free and we'll send you quarterly email reminders!
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Photo Credit: Marcus Aurelius
