Doctor's orders: 6 must-keep New Year’s resolutions for seniors

(LAS VEGAS) - As the first week of 2023 closes, statistics suggest many people already dropped their New Year's resolutions — if they made them. The older someone becomes, the less likely they are to make New Year’s resolutions, with people ages 55 and older being three times less likely to have resolutions than to younger adults. But this year, physicians are urging seniors to make — and keep — resolutions that are critical to their wellness and overall quality of life.

Henderson-based health care company P3 Health Partners suggests six New Year’s resolutions for area seniors looking to start 2023 off on a healthy foot:

1. Practice safe sun: Skin cancer risk increases with age, so resolve to wear sunscreen (SPF 30 or more) daily in 2023, and call to schedule a full skin cancer screening with a dermatologist.

2. Bedtime better: Resolve to avoid TV and phone screens for at least an hour before bedtime, and fall asleep in bed rather than on the couch. Consider a bedtime routine that includes reading a book, doing a puzzle, taking a walk, listening to relaxing music, journaling, meditating or other body- and brain-healthy screen time alternatives.

3. Don't lose muscles: Muscle mass is reduced every year after age 50 — a phenomenon that can be reversed with movement and exercise. Resolve to spend less time sitting and more time on your feet in 2023, which research shows can help you live longer.

4. Remember that you are what you eat (and drink): Extra sugar, salt and preservatives in highly processed foods increase blood pressure and blood sugar while raising risk for diseases. Resolve to eat fresher, whole foods in 2023 while also cutting back on soda, juice and alcohol.

5. Give your stomach a curfew: Stopping eating three hours before bedtime can help people eat less, lose weight and have less heartburn.

6. Get an annual wellness exam: Cross a comprehensive medical visit off your to-do list as soon as possible. In addition to a basic physical examination and bloodwork, a doctor can make sure all cancer screenings and other tests and vaccines are up to date.

No matter your age, here's to a healthy 2023.