The only sure things in life are death and taxes… Or so the saying goes. And there is a sparkle of truth in this adage. Unfortunately, science has yet to give us the key to eternal life. Fortunately, however, there are steps we can take right now that will keep us healthy for as long as possible.
Here are 5 steps you can take now that will pay off in the long run.
- Study your family’s medical history.
Your parents and close relatives share your genes as well as environmental and lifestyle factors. Become aware of any health troubles your parents (or grandparents) face. Pinpointing your own potential health risks becomes easier to spot if you are aware of health troubles within your family. For example, a family member with a certain affliction suggests you have a higher chance of developing that disease. Knowing your family’s medical history will allow you to take steps to guard yourself against pertinent risk factors.
- Schedule reoccurring doctor’s visits.
No one wants to spend a morning waiting in the doctor’s office for a yearly exam. And quite often if it is not an emergency, people will do just about anything to avoid going to see a doctor. This is regrettable, as early detection saves lives. While you may have gotten away with not seeing a primary care physician for years on end, once you approach your 40s, this thinking needs to change. Make a yearly appointment with your family doctor (and gynecologist for the ladies). And do not forget to make a bi-yearly appearance at the dentist’s office.
- Consider who you are hanging out with.
This might seem an odd question to consider. But recall that conventional wisdom tells us we will adopt the habits and behaviors of our close friends. It is worthwhile then to evaluate their health habits and how they might be affecting you. That does not mean you should drop your friends who have bad habits. But awareness of potential copying can keep you from adopting bad health habits subconsciously.
- Understand your health insurance.
Reading through the fine lines of your health insurance plan may be enough to give you a headache. We understand. But if it keeps you from utilizing your health insurance policy to the full, then it is doing the opposite of its purpose in your life. Key times when you should closely look at the fine print are when changing employers. Also, right before your 65th birthday, focus on getting to know what medicare plans are on offer. Take maximum advantage of your health coverage by making use of what you are covered for. Call a hotline if the legalese is too complicated and you want just the facts. Knowledge is power.
- Re-evaluate your exercise plan.
Are you still sticking with the exercise plan you had in your late twenties? It might be time to regroup and reevaluate. What worked for a 20-year-old body will not work for someone approaching 50. Roller blading and dealing with a twisted ankle will be more difficult for a 40 year old to get over then a person in their teens. That is an extreme example, but you get the idea. Your body has different needs as it ages, as well as different risk factors that become more prominent at certain times. Your job is to tailor your exercise plan accordingly. Ask your trainer, or a fitness expert you trust, what they would recommend for someone of your age, weight, and capability. And do not forget to run your new plan by your doctor.
While we are young, it can be difficult to project into the future and consider a time when we may not be as healthy as we are now. For forward thinkers, planners, and all of us should be taking steps today that will benefit our future selves.
Brought to you by medicarehealthplans.com.
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