Thriving in 2025: 5 ways to stick with your health goals
As we usher in a new year, many of us are inspired to embrace positive changes, especially when it comes to our health. For older adults, maintaining and improving health is a worthy and achievable goal. Whether you’re aiming to boost your energy levels, enhance mobility, or feel your best, here are some tips to help you stick to your health goals in the coming year.
Set realistic goals: Start by setting achievable and realistic health goals. Instead of aiming for drastic changes, focus on small, sustainable adjustments. This might include incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet or taking short walks more frequently.
Prioritize movement: Regular exercise is a key component of a healthy lifestyle. Consider doing more of the activities you enjoy and love, whether walking, swimming, gardening, or even dancing. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, but remember, every little bit counts.
Eat well to age well: Nourish your body with a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Stay hydrated and be mindful of portion sizes.
Get social. Enlist the support of friends or family in your health journey. Joining group fitness classes or walking groups can make activities more enjoyable and foster a sense of community.
Be consistent and celebrate progress: Consistency is key when it comes to health goals. Establishing a routine can help make healthy habits a natural part of daily life. Whether it’s setting a regular bedtime, incorporating daily stretching, or committing to regular health check-ups, consistency is the foundation of success. Be sure to pause, recognize, and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.
Remember, the journey to better health is a marathon, not a sprint. By taking small, sustainable steps and staying committed to your goals, you can make significant strides towards a healthier and happier you in the New Year. Here’s to a year of well-being and vitality!
McMaster Optimal Aging Blog Posts are written by faculty, staff, PhD students, and external collaborators, and are assessed for accuracy by members of the Portal scientific leadership team.
DISCLAIMER: These summaries are provided for informational purposes only. They are not a substitute for advice from your own health care professional. The summaries may be reproduced for not-for-profit educational purposes only. Any other uses must be approved by the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal (info@mcmasteroptimalaging.org)