Mark Twain defined New Year’s resolutions as those that “go in one year and out the other.”
Unfortunately for most of us, his observation is quite accurate! We quickly give up resolutions aimed at improving our health, like weight loss, exercise, or smoking cessation. By mid-January we’re back to our old, bad, health-defying habits.
Here’s a new approach — choose resolutions aimed at prevention instead. They are less challenging to achieve than the old standards mentioned above, but may have very positive effects on your health. Here are a few to get you started:
1. Get vaccinated. Vaccines are the single best way to protect against contagious illnesses that could turn deadly. From seasonal or H1N1 swine flu shots, to shingles, tetanus or pneumonia, there are many vaccines that can help keep you healthy. Ask your doctor about them.
2. Develop a healthy skepticism. When you are diagnosed, or a treatment is recommended, listen to what your doctor tells you, then confirm what you’ve been told. Get a second opinion, or find additional information on the Internet or in the library. Make sure that your findings mesh with your doctor’s recommendations. If they don’t, then raise your questions before committing to treatment.
3. Adhere to your treatment regimen. Once you and your doctor have agreed on a course of treatment, then follow that regimen to the letter. What good can your blood pressure medicine do if you rarely remember to take it? Create a reminder system or invite your spouse to nag you – whatever it takes. If your adherence challenges are due to another problem such as the cost of the medication or side effects that you can’t tolerate, then discuss possible alternatives with your doctor to be sure your needs are addressed.
4. Don’t get sick! While that seems a bit simplistic, there are definite steps you can take. Avoid situations where you might be exposed to colds or other infections. Don’t shake hands, hug or kiss someone who is sick. Spare others illness too. Keep your hands washed, sneeze or cough into the crook of your elbow, and dispose of tissues right away.
You can probably think of additional ways to stay healthy that won’t require a gym membership or a ban on your favorite foods. Smart patients realize that not all resolutions have to be painful to be successful.
A toast to a healthy 2014!
If your or a loved one needs help navigating the health care system, ReAssured Advocacy can help. Call us today at 303-756-8436.
Reprinted with permission from Trisha Torrey, Every Patient’s Advocate: www.EveryPatientsAdvocate.com
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