Have you made any New Year’s resolutions? Many of us resolve to look after our health, lose weight, be more active and enjoy a better quality of life with more energy. If your resolution is to enjoy the new year with a whole new you, take a look at your health insurance to see if your coverage can be the best tool you have to meet your goals. Many seniors don’t realize just how helpful their insurance can be.

Visit a Nutritionist

To improve your health, start with what you eat. Make sure you’re eating a diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains and legumes. Eat a moderate amount of red meat, and stay away from foods that are high in sugar. This will help you maintain a healthy body weight, reduce your risk of developing diabetes, and lower your cholesterol levels. A diet rich in nutrients and vitamins is extremely important for adults over the age of 65, and the foods you eat will help you stay healthy for years to come. Your health insurance can assist you on this journey, and with an Advantage Plan, you may be eligible to receive nutrition therapy to get a dietary plan tailored to your needs.

Access a Weight Loss Program

Do you want to enjoy your golden years in great health? Meet your “new year, new me” goals by accessing a weight loss program. Your health insurance covers obesity screenings, counseling, and dietary suggestions to help you become your best self, so don’t let your weight hold you back. Did you know that nearly 29% of seniors are struggling with obesity? Use your health insurance to lose weight and feel healthy and confident.

Be More Active

One of the best things you can do for your overall health is to be more active. Make sure you do a few minutes of activity every day. This is good for your heart health, helps you maintain a healthy weight, and lowers your blood pressure, keeping you young as you age. Getting daily exercise also boosts your immune system and improves your mood. Being fit is a great way to prevent negative health outcomes, and reduce the number of doctor’s visits you’ll need in the year ahead. Medicare can help you be more active with the SilverSneakers program. This program is completely free for Medicare Advantage plan users, and it’s designed to help seniors get in shape. You’ll enjoy unlimited access to more than thousands of gyms across the country, use gym equipment, or even join a fitness class.

Make Dental Health a Priority

Keeping up with your oral health should always be a priority. Particularly if you’re on a variety of medications, which often cause dry mouth. In turn, a dry mouth can lead to cavities and gum disease. Prevention starts with brushing and flossing twice a day. Be nice to your gums, and invest in a softer toothbrush like Zent, which offers the right amount of pressure without hurting your teeth or gums. Other ways to address dry mouth include staying hydrated, using oral moisturizers, and chewing sugar-free gum. It’s also important to get regular checkups, though bear in mind these aren’t covered by Medicare. Your best bet here is to sign up for an independent dental plan through a reputable provider.

Did you make a resolution to be your best self? If you need help with your “new year, new me” goals, your health insurance plan could be the most powerful tool at your disposal. You may not realize just how many benefits you can access with your health insurance, so contact your insurance provider to find out what your plan can do for you. Visit a dietitian to learn about nutrition, manage your weight, or discover the SilverSneakers program to get more active. Maintain your health regardless of your age, and be your best self in the year ahead.