Most of us can think of ways we could take better care of ourselves, but the good news is, our doctors aren’t expecting perfection. Often, they’re just looking for small, consistent habits that add up over time to improve your overall health. The best part is that it’s never too late to make meaningful changes.

We spoke with board-certified emergency medicine physician Dr. Joseph Radachy about what he wishes more patients would prioritize. From simple ways to avoid everyday accidents to daily practices that support long-term health, here are six things your doctor wishes you’d do.

Stay Active Physically and Mentally

One of the most powerful ways to support your overall health is to stay active. “This is somewhat cliché, but this means mentally and physically, as much as possible,” Dr. Radachy says. “Activity helps everything.”

Your mental health might seem secondary to the health of your body, but it deserves just as much attention, because “keeping your brain active helps you stay mentally sharp.” Staying in touch with friends and family is key: These connections reduce the incidence of depression in older adults. Reading, doing puzzles, and learning new skills are other excellent ways to keep your mind busy.

Getting adequate physical activity is equally important. “Gentle physical activity as tolerated helps to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and can also help with arthritis,” Dr. Radachy says. The CDC recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week; taking a brisk 30-minute walk five days a week would do the trick. That said, your routine should reflect your abilities and any health conditions you may have, so it’s always wise to check with your doctor before starting something new.

If you’re struggling to find motivation for daily activity, consider joining a group class or a local walking group. According to Dr. Radachy, an easy-to-care-for pet, such as a cat or a small dog, is also a great option — companionship paired with daily movement can be a powerful combination.

Make Your House Safer

Safety-proofing a home isn’t just for toddlers: Studies show that at-home accidents are a leading cause of injury and death. The National Safety Council estimates that 77% of all preventable injury-related deaths in 2024 occurred in homes and communities, along with 45.8 million injuries that required a medical consultation. Poisoning accounts for 49% of these injury-related deaths, followed by falls (31%) and choking (4%).

Because tripping and falling are major concerns, especially among older adults, Dr. Radachy offers simple accident-prevention tips. Scan your house room by room for trip hazards on floors and stairways. This might include old, curled-up rugs, uneven flooring, furniture, and cluttered walkways. Clean up those areas, “because inevitably, you or someone else will trip over [them] and end up with a broken hip, leg, whatever,” he says. Don’t neglect the outside of your home, either, where seasonal hazards such as wet leaves, ice, snow, and debris can make sidewalks and driveways hazardous.

You can also protect yourself by wearing tight-fitting slippers with treads rather than socks indoors, particularly if your home has hardwood or tile floors. Falls and other accidents can lead to a long, difficult recovery that could have been easily avoided.

Advocate for Yourself

Your health concerns matter, and letting your doctor know about new or recurring symptoms can make all the difference. “You are your own best advocate,” Dr. Radachy says. “Notice a new rash or spot on your skin, unintentional weight gain or weight loss, abnormal swelling or masses, etc.? Don’t be afraid to speak up about your concerns so that potential issues can get addressed early.” This can lead to faster diagnosis and better outcomes — you know your body best.

Dr. Radachy also recommends monitoring your blood pressure, which is a key indicator of overall health. Many retail pharmacies offer free, self-service blood pressure kiosks for this purpose. Report any changes or consistently high readings to your doctor.

Know Your Medical History

As an emergency room doctor, Dr. Radachy sees it all while caring for very sick patients — often with very little information. There is an easy way to ensure you’re getting the care you need, whether you’re at the ER or getting a routine check-up: Know your medical history.

“Make a list of your medical problems, medications, and emergency contacts and keep it handy,” Dr. Radachy advises. This includes things like allergies, past surgeries, chronic illnesses, disabilities, prescription medications, and supplements. While electronic medical records are popular nowadays, the systems aren’t perfect, and document sharing can be delayed or unavailable.

A printed copy on your refrigerator can be invaluable for first responders, and carrying one in your wallet or purse ensures you’re prepared wherever you go. It’s a simple step that can save critical time and prevent confusion.

Remember: Everything in Moderation

When it comes to health, balance is key. “A discussion about health would not be complete without mentioning ‘everything in moderation,’” Dr. Radachy says. “It is certainly OK to indulge” in things like sweet treats or alcoholic beverages, he adds, “but everything must be done in moderation to avoid potential problems.”

Dr. Radachy notes that one worry with overindulgence is weight gain and obesity. “Obesity is a major problem in this country and brings with it its own host of complications,” he says. “It is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in older adults and is easily avoidable.”

The CDC estimates that more than two in five U.S. adults have obesity, and many of these adults have other serious chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. While obesity is a complex and costly disease, one of the best ways to prevent it is to consume healthy foods and beverages. Focus on nutrient-rich whole foods, stay mindful of portion sizes, and limit highly processed foods. Small daily changes tend to be more effective than strict dieting.

Stop Smoking

If there’s one habit doctors consistently urge people to quit, it’s smoking. “Cigarette smoking is probably the single worst thing you can do for your health,” Dr. Radachy says, adding that smoking is “directly linked to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and lung cancer.” In the U.S., adults ages 45 to 64 have the highest prevalence of cigarette smoking, according to the CDC.

The encouraging news is that the benefits of quitting are clear, regardless of your age or how long you’ve been smoking. They include an increased life expectancy of up to 10 years and a lower risk of 12 types of cancer. It’s not always easy to quit, but support is available through counseling and medications. Every step toward quitting is an important step toward better overall health.

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