Start the New Year with a Health-Focused To-Do List for Seniors

As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time for seniors to prioritize their health and well-being by creating a New Year’s medical checklist. Taking proactive steps now can help you stay on top of your health throughout the year. Here’s a guide to crafting a health-focused to-do list that ensures you’re starting 2025 on the right track.

1. Schedule Your Annual Exams

Your yearly check-up is a cornerstone of preventive care. Annual exams allow your primary care provider to:

• Monitor your overall health.

• Identify potential health issues early.

• Update any necessary vaccinations.

• Discuss your wellness goals for the year.

If you haven’t already, call your provider today to set up your appointment.

2. Verify Your Medicare Advantage Plan Coverage

With Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment happening in the early months of the year, this is a great time to:

• Review your current healthcare plan to ensure it meets your needs.

• Explore whether returning to a plan like CarePlus, Humana, or Aetna is beneficial.

• Confirm coverage for prescriptions, specialists, and routine care.

Reach out to your provider or insurance representative for guidance if you’re unsure about your plan.

3. Have an Eye Exam

Eye health is often overlooked but essential for seniors. Scheduling a comprehensive eye exam can:

• Detect early signs of glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration.

• Update your prescription for glasses or contacts.

• Ensure you’re seeing clearly and safely navigating your environment.

Add this to your to-do list to help maintain your vision and independence.

4. Address Any Existing Conditions

Do you have lingering health concerns or chronic conditions that need attention? Make 2025 the year you:

• Follow up with specialists to manage ongoing issues like diabetes, arthritis, or heart disease.

• Stay up to date with any recommended screenings, such as bone density tests or mammograms.

• Discuss new treatment options or lifestyle changes that could improve your quality of life.

5. Review Your Medications with Your Provider

Medication management is critical for seniors, especially if you’re seeing multiple specialists. Use your New Year’s checklist to:

• Talk to your primary care provider about all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements.

• Ensure there are no redundancies in your prescriptions.

• Identify and address potential side effects or interactions between medications.

This review can reduce health risks and improve how you feel day to day.

6. Get Active and Stay Active

While this may not seem medical, physical activity is vital to overall health. Check with your provider before starting or changing your fitness routine and aim for activities like:

• Walking, swimming, or yoga to improve flexibility, strength, and balance.

• Tai Chi classes (many are free and offered locally) for safe and effective exercise.

7. Update Your Emergency Contacts and Medical Information

Take the time to ensure your important health information is up to date:

• Review and update emergency contacts with your provider’s office.

• Carry a current list of medications, allergies, and health conditions in your wallet.

• Consider setting up or reviewing advance directives to communicate your care preferences.

Take Control of Your Health This Year

Making a New Year’s to-do list focused on your health empowers you to take control of your well-being. These small but meaningful steps ensure you’re prepared for whatever 2025 brings. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to your healthcare provider—they’re there to help guide you on your journey to better health