It’s a new year, which means you may be thinking about a New Year’s resolution. But if you are like most Americans, you know that resolutions often fall through. In fact, just 8 percent of us follow through on the goals we set on January 1! One reason for this is that we set lofty goals that are too difficult (like losing 50 pounds) or too abstract (like being “healthier”).

Instead of making goals you are unlikely to achieve, consider smaller, more tangible goals that will improve your life in little but meaningful ways. These 10 easy changes can help you boost your health for 2017:

• Aim to eat one or two more servings of fruits and vegetables each day. This goal works whether you currently eat no produce, or you’re close to the recommended target of five to nine servings. A goal to dramatically change your diet is likely to fail. But these types of small changes can be sustainable over the long run.
• Take a daily multivitamin. If your doctor has advised a daily multivitamin but you haven’t added it to your routine, do it now. Multivitamins can have many health benefits, particularly as you age.
• Walk every day. Walking is an excellent form of exercise, particularly if you don’t get much physical activity now. Even a five-minute stroll can help improve your health and wellbeing, so lace up your shoes and get outside!
• Be honest with your doctor. Is there something you’ve been keeping from your doctor because you’re ashamed or uncertain? Make a resolution to tell your doctor about what’s been bothering you, even if you don’t think it’s a big deal. One simple conversation could make a big difference for your health.
• Call or write to an old friend. Friendship has countless benefits for our physical and emotional wellbeing. Something as simple as a short chat with a longtime friend can help boost your spirits and reduce your stress.
• Try a new medication management system. Do you have trouble remembering to take your pills on time? Make a resolution to try a new method for keeping track of your medications. You may choose to invest in a simple pill dispenser or an expensive automated system – the most important thing is to find a system that works for you.
• Cut out one thing that causes stress. While stress is a normal part of life, there are some activities that may cause you more anxiety than others. If you have a certain regular task that causes you a lot of grief – a stressful lunch date or an overwhelming volunteer job, for example – consider dropping it from your schedule.
• Do one thing you’ve always wanted to do. Whether you have a book you’ve been longing to read or a trip to check off your bucket list, make plans to do the thing you’ve been dreaming of for so long. Doing something you enjoy can help you feel happier and less stressed.
• Clear your home of clutter. Stray socks and power cords can cause falls, which can serious injury to older adults. Make a resolution to clean up clutter and tape down power cords. Consider hiring someone to come by and tidy up on a regular basis.
• Boost your brain. As you get older, keeping your brain in top shape becomes increasingly important. Maintain thinking muscles by doing crossword puzzles or brain teasers, or by signing up for a class.

Although the new year is a good time for short-term goals, it’s also an opportunity to reevaluate your long-term plans and future needs. When it comes to planning for your future long-term care needs, Life Care Funding can help you understand your options and develop a plan that works for you. Have a question about long term care? Reach out to one of our experts today!