Declutter

• While decluttering the house, take time to look through your medicine and prescriptions. Make sure to dispose of expired medicine and prescriptions that you are no longer using.
• Look up proper medicine disposal sites near you (typically found at doctor’s offices or pharmacies). Make sure you have the most up-to-date insurance cards and get rid of the old ones. Look through your saved medical files (paper and virtual) and ensure you have paid your bills.Then you can trash or shred old medical bills, cards, and any other healthcare information you no longer need.

Organize

• Now that you have narrowed down the medicine you want to keep, you can organize it in a way that makes it easier to find. Remember to look in all places where you might keep medicine (medicine cabinets, bathroom drawers, closets, etc.)
• Look through your up-to-date medical records. Find a place in your house or a virtual file folder on a computer to keep your medical bills and information and label them properly for easy finding.
• Now is a great time to check in with yourself and update any health related issues. Take note of new health concerns and/or changes to your own health or family health history. Keep this information in a place that is easy for you to find for your next medical appointment. (Tip: make a note in your calendar on the day of your doctor’s appointment to remember to bring this information).

Maintenance

• Making sure you are up to date with vaccinations is an important part of maintaining your health. It is not too late to get your annual immunizations such as COVID-19 and flu shots. Don’t let sickness ruin any of your spring break or holiday plans! Visit your doctor or pharmacy to receive your vaccinations.
• Remember to check your calendar for your yearly healthcare appointments. This includes dentist, doctor, eye doctor, and specialist appointments. If you do not have anything scheduled, be sure to make those calls to get appointments on the calendar and stay up to date.
• Assessing your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health. Don’t forget to ask for help when you need it, whether it is from a friend, family member, or a health professional. Taking care of yourself and maintaining your health involves all aspects.

Decluttering, organizing, and maintaining aspects and areas of wellness can be an important step in staying healthy. Incorporating these steps into your annual spring cleaning can be a great way to self-assess your wellness and make sure you are taking preventative measures to be your healthiest self.