Setting Health-Related Resolutions for 2024 Is a Simple Way to Start
By Carlos Gutierrez, M.D., Family Medicine, Kelsey-Seybold Clinic – West Grand Parkway Clinic
For many older Americans, a new year often starts with resolutions that can lead to improvements in daily habits and better health.
In fact, according to a 2020 study, older adults who engaged in healthy lifestyle choices such as physical activity, not smoking, not drinking heavily, following the Mediterranean-style diet, and taking part in mentally stimulating activities, had a 60% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.[1]
As you consider changes and goals for 2024, here are five achievable resolutions that may help you start the new year on the right foot.
- Pursue an active lifestyle.
Staying active is an important goal. Adults can engage in activity at home including aerobic activity, resistance training, yoga, walking, biking, dancing, and body weight, resistance band, or light dumbbell exercises. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), regular physical activity is vital for healthy aging. [2]
Disclaimer: Talk with your doctor before significantly increasing your activity level. This is especially important for those with underlying medical conditions. Ask about the amounts and types of activities that may be best for you.
- Eat healthfully.
Prioritize healthy eating and snacking. Potential benefits of healthy eating include living longer, strengthening bones, and lowering the risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.[3] Depending on how they are prepared, home-cooked meals may have lower levels of sodium, sugar, and fat when compared to meals at a restaurant. If you have allergies or conditions that require a special diet, talk to your doctor about your meal plan.
- Challenge your brain and stimulate your mind.
Because aging can cause changes to brain size, vasculature, and cognition, according to the National Institute of Aging,[4] it’s important to keep your mind active. Living healthfully, both physically and mentally, may be one of the best defenses against the changes of an aging brain. Completing crossword puzzles or playing games, such as chess, or enjoying a new hobby may be fun ways to keep your mind active. Talk to your doctor if you are worried about changes in your memory and thinking. They can help determine if those changes are normal or something more serious.[5]
- Stay connected with friends and family.
The National Institute on Aging says older adults with strong social and community ties are more likely to live a longer life [6] and cites research stating that isolation can contribute to high blood pressure.[7] Even a virtual visit is better than no visit at all if a face-to-face visit isn’t possible.
- Nurture an interest.
People who engage in activities or hobbies may feel happier and healthier, according to the National Institute on Aging. Learning new skills may also help increase cognitive function. Music, theater, dance, and creative writing are just some ways that older adults may be able to help improve their well-being through hobbies. These specific interests may help with memory, boost self-esteem, reduce stress and increase social interactions.
- See your doctor.
While New Year’s resolutions such as watching what we eat or starting a fitness routine are common, prioritizing and scheduling a wellness visit with a primary care physician is an important first step. Having regular checkups and preventive screenings, that are separate from visits due to illness, injury, or routine care for ongoing medical conditions, may help catch health problems early, helping you live a healthier and longer life. [8]
[1] How the Aging Brain Affects Thinking | National Institute on Aging (nih.gov)
[2] Adults Need More Physical Activity | Physical Activity | CDC
[3] Benefits of Healthy Eating | Nutrition | DNPAO | CDC
[4] How the Aging Brain Affects Thinking | National Institute on Aging (nih.gov)
[5] How the Aging Brain Affects Thinking | National Institute on Aging (nih.gov)
[6] Do Social Ties Affect Our Health? | NIH News in Health
[7] Social isolation, loneliness in older people pose health risks | National Institute on Aging (nih.gov)
