(StatePoint) Whether your New Year’s Resolutions include eating healthier, exercising more, or devoting more time to self-care, having a plan can help you reach your goals on a budget.

(StatePoint) It’s already the time of year to reassess where the past 12 months took you and decide what you want to improve, change or start doing in 2022. Coming up with meaningful resolutions can be hard. To help simplify this process and get started toward becoming a better you, here are five things to consider working into your daily schedule in the new year:

(StatePoint) Starting a new fitness routine as part of your New Year’s resolutions? Protecting your feet is critical.

(StatePoint) Resolving to green up your act in the New Year? Here are just a few tweaks you can make right at home to substantially reduce your environmental footprint.

(StatePoint) Visible light (VL) is the light we can see, and excessive amounts of exposure can contribute to the production of free radicals, which may have negative, aging effects on the skin. VL comes in many forms, from sunlight to the light emitted from digital screens like cellphones and laptops. That’s why experts advise taking steps to protect your skin year round.

(StatePoint) The New Year offers the perfect time for a fresh start and a renewed commitment to getting finances back on track after a season of spending – one where many Americans felt the effects of the pandemic on their wallets even before the onset of the holidays.

(StatePoint) It’s no secret that many people wait for a new year to commit to implementing better habits. They’ll start eating more vegetables next week, they’ll cut out wine with dinner next month, and they’ll use their gym membership next year. These are things you’ve heard before, and likely even things you’ve said yourself. So how do you make resolutions you’ll stick to?

(StatePoint) While diet and exercise resolutions typically top New Year’s lists, experts say that focusing a few of your resolutions on forming good habits relating to your pharmacy routine can improve your overall health.

(StatePoint) While investing in your health and wellness can sound like an overwhelming goal, doctors say that there are easy, tangible resolutions you can make to feel your best and better protect your health.

(StatePoint) While basic sun protection is likely your top skin care priority in summer, during the fall season, it’s time to address other skin care concerns. One matter in particular to pay close attention to is scarring. This is because sun exposure can cause further discoloration in scars. What’s more, scar tissue is more susceptible than other skin to sun damage.

(StatePoint) It’s become an annual tradition that as soon as we bid adieu to chrysanthemums, the cornucopias and the turkey dinner, the frantic countdown to Christmas begins. From the countless holiday soirees and batches of bulk baking, to battling the crowds in a futile attempt to secure the most sought-after toy, or remembering to move the elf each night, ‘tis the season to be exhausted.

(StatePoint) As we find ourselves surrounded by an abundance of this year’s “must-have” items, our shopping lists are often dictated by retail experts all claiming to offer the ultimate gift-giving guide. But there’s no need to spend a fortune or face the aggravation of competing with crowds for sold-out products. Sometimes, the most rich and memorable gifts can be created in the kitchen.

(StatePoint) Have you ever been overwhelmed by the range of skin care products available today or read a word you didn’t understand on the side of packaging? Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 and one of the more common ingredients in skin care today, may be one of those unfamiliar words you’ve had questions about.

(StatePoint) While COVID-19 and influenza continue to make headlines, another contagious respiratory virus has been spreading at an alarming rate, one which can be severe and even life-threatening to infants and toddlers.

(StatePoint) Do you and your family regularly discuss money matters or do you shy away from the subject? Experts note that money talk taboos are common among American families and that this needs to change.

(StatePoint) Bringing new life to classic holiday traditions starts with understanding the origins of how these traditions came to be.

(StatePoint) It may be the season of cheer, but for many, the holidays are rife with anxiety about expenses. A recent survey shows that staying on budget is Americans’ top concern this holiday season, followed by incurring long-term debt, shipping costs and being charged late or hidden fees.

(StatePoint) Music is powerful. Here is how to include music in your holiday celebrations to set a joyful, festive mood and help create happy family memories.

(StatePoint) If you’ve ever desired to become a better home chef, you’ve probably spent time reading cookbooks, watching cooking shows or even taking a culinary skills course. The truth is that when it comes to improving your cooking and becoming more efficient in the kitchen, you may be overlooking a much simpler step: sharpening your knives.

(StatePoint) With the help of an Airstream trailer traveling the country, people with Parkinson’s disease will soon have a unique opportunity to record and share their experiences and personal stories as part of a program called “Yours, Truly.”

(StatePoint) There’s no reason to be working harder in the kitchen than you need to be, especially when it comes to clean-up.

(StatePoint) Whether you’re a Beatlemaniac or a more casual fan, you likely have an opinion about the band’s final days together and their eventual breakup.

(StatePoint) Diabetes is a chronic condition that leads to serious life-threatening complications, however many people go undiagnosed and are undertreated -- a situation being further exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. For this reason, understanding risk factors, symptoms and the importance of early diagnosis and action is essential.

(StatePoint) Life’s unexpected challenges can make meeting monthly mortgage payments difficult. The good news? Help is available to avoid foreclosure.

(StatePoint) It surprises a lot of people to learn that the United States is the most dangerous place to give birth in the developed world. Women in the United States are more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than women in Libya and Kazakhstan, and the United States is the only industrialized nation to experience an increase in maternal mortality over the last two decades.

(StatePoint) Americans are increasingly looking to electrify their daily on-road travel, according to a new study.

(StatePoint) American families have a special opportunity right now to make an impact. Now more than ever, as we experience a global pandemic, and have a renewed focus on social justice and environmental challenges, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and advance causes your family cares about.

(StatePoint) As the country takes steps toward economic recovery amidst an ongoing pandemic, women business owners are reporting increased optimism about the current economic outlook, which may be accredited to their resilience and decisive action, according to a recent survey of women-owned businesses by PNC Bank.

(StatePoint) There is a growing demand for in-home caregivers and there is good reason for that, say experts. There are many unique advantages that healthcare at home, or in another familiar setting, provides.

(StatePoint) The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities across our nation’s healthcare system, shining a light on disparities in access to care and health outcomes. People of color and those with low incomes are often left without access to high-quality, affordable health insurance, causing them to delay or forgo lifesaving care.

(StatePoint) Thinking of surprising a friend or family member with a puppy this holiday season?

(StatePoint) This article is sponsored by Otsuka America Pharmaceutical Inc.

(StatePoint) The holiday season is one of the most joyful times of year, but it can also lead to aching feet. One source of seasonal foot pain is gout, a type of arthritis exacerbated by consuming too much of certain holiday foods and beverages.

(StatePoint) Holiday plans may look different again this year. Some families will choose to host small gatherings, while others may celebrate from the comfort of home instead of traveling.

(StatePoint) Cooler temperatures, outings to the Christmas tree farm, game nights and holiday feasts. Now that the holiday season is here, it’s time to prep your home for seasonal fun! Whether you’re hosting a big or small group of family and friends this holiday season, decorating and decluttering around the house can make party prep easier and more enjoyable for everyone. With that in mind, here are some top tips to create functional and stylish spaces that are easy to keep clean and tidy throughout the festivities.

(StatePoint) Holiday cooking and entertaining don’t have to be overly complex to impress. Here are quick, simple ways to elevate your meals for memorable experiences your friends and family will love:

(StatePoint) Children needs lots of physical activity to develop their motor skills and grow up healthy and strong, and you can foster your toddler or preschooler’s love of movement by making playtime active. To get started, consider these indoor and outdoor playtime toys, games and ideas:

(StatePoint) Heart failure is a chronic condition in which the heart cannot pump as it should and is unable to meet the oxygen and blood circulation needs of the body. Heart failure currently affects more than 6 million people nationwide. Additionally, of all American adults 40 and older, one in five will develop heart failure in their lifetime, according to the American Heart Association.

(StatePoint) For deployed service members who are also parents, being away from their kids is often the hardest part of the job.

(StatePoint) It is important to remember to take stock of what you’re doing to reduce your environmental impact. Every effort counts and that goes down to the tiniest recyclable items such as contacts lenses.

(StatePoint) Unfortunately, many of the most effective scams are those which target older adults, according to experts.

(StatePoint) Clumsiness is a trait many can relate to. Unfortunately, even the slightest misstep can be disastrous for your phone, whether it’s cracking your screen or destroying delicate components in water.

(StatePoint) While you may primarily associate insect invasions with warmer weather, bugs are liable to make themselves at home in your living spaces during all four seasons.

(StatePoint) While there is a lot of guidance available about what to feed children, until now, there has been little guidance about how to feed them. New recommendations offer parents and caregivers practical tips for encouraging healthy eating habits vital to growth, development and health.

(StatePoint) When it comes to outdoor adventures, you never know what unexpected issues will arise. While you’re unlikely to pack a full toolbox, extra shoes or equipment due to space limitations, tape can offer quick fixes in a variety of situations, and is a must-have item to keep with your outdoor gear.

(StatePoint) Whether retirement is in on the horizon for you or you are simply planning to move to your dream retirement area earlier than planned thanks to telework, there is a lot to consider when relocating.

(StatePoint) One of the best ways to ensure you give thoughtful, meaningful holiday gifts is by consulting gift guides that offer unique ideas for everyone on your list. Whether you’re shopping for a fashionista or an athlete, get inspired to make the holiday season brighter for your loved ones with the following ideas:

(StatePoint) Whether you’re a beginning baker or an experienced entertainer, having the right tools can make the process of holiday party prep faster, easier, more festive – and ensure you can achieve expert-level results. Here are a few must-haves to add to your holiday shopping list.

(StatePoint) Health and safety, shipping delays and a constrained budget -- these are just some of the concerns that may be amplifying your shopping stress this holiday season.

(StatePoint) The holiday season brings an abundance of feelings that may include joy, comfort, gratitude, and unfortunately, stress. Don’t let the task of entertaining friends and family break the bank or your back.

(StatePoint) In the scramble to get your hands on the toys your children want this holiday season, experts warn that you should prioritize safety by sticking to age-appropriate toys and by avoiding counterfeit alternatives at all costs.

(StatePoint) It’s estimated that influenza sent up to 400,000 people to the hospital with flu complications and caused an estimated 22,000 deaths in the United States in the 2019-2020 flu season. As more Americans return to their workplaces, employers can play an important role in flu prevention.

(StatePoint) A time when natural disasters are growing in frequency, most Americans are not physically or financially prepared to handle them.

(StatePoint) When it comes to birthdays, holidays and life’s special moments, finding a gift for someone we love can be a daunting task. If you’re feeling repetitive and predictable in your gift-giving endeavors, start thinking outside the gift box and give a unique present that’s sure to delight!

(StatePoint) When it comes to healthy, active aging, it’s all about making simple adaptations. This is especially true of outdoor chores, which can put a strain on wrists and hands.

(StatePoint) Planning a wedding involves dozens of decisions made under tight deadlines, as well as agreements made with multiple vendors, including caterers, entertainers and florists.

(StatePoint) What if your family’s playtime was not just fun, but a pathway to future success? In a recent survey of parents conducted by OnePoll on behalf of The Genius of Play, a leading online hub of expert-based play ideas and resources for families, 87% of respondents said the skills they learned while playing as a child helped them achieve success in their adult careers.

(StatePoint) Whether you’re attending a rescheduled wedding, reentering the workplace or just want to look your best this fall, shiny tresses look good with every outfit and on every occasion. However, if your locks are looking a bit dull, don’t stress -- experts say that not only is it completely typical to need a bit of a refresh this time of year, but that this is an issue you can resolve on your own.

(StatePoint) It’s that time of year: pumpkin spice is here and so are shorter days and cooler nights. Before nightfall comes too early, take advantage of the milder temps to prepare your home for winter. Here are a few easy, DIY tasks to check off your list. 

(StatePoint) Asthma is a lung disease that makes breathing difficult for over 24 million Americans. While there’s no cure, there are steps you can take to help control it so you can lead a normal, healthy life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Asthma Control Program developed the “six EXHALE strategies” that help contribute to better asthma control.

(StatePoint) Despite the recent resurgence of COVID-19, many consumers are more comfortable shopping at brick-and-mortar stores compared to last year, and experts are predicting substantial retail traffic this holiday season.

(StatePoint) While “thank you” notes have been exchanged since the 1400s, they remain as important as ever today.

(StatePoint) Smartphones – we use them to connect us to literally everything – from calling loved ones, to ordering food delivery online, to texting and browsing the web. And thanks to 5G, the next era of wireless technology going mainstream, there are a ton of benefits to upgrading to the latest iPhone with 5G.

(StatePoint) Whether you’re shopping in the dental aisle or scrolling online, it may be surprising to see just how many products there are to choose from. However, dentists have a simple tip to pick the right ones for you and your family – check for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance.

(StatePoint) While comfort reigns supreme in fashion and accessories, the transition to the cooler months offers opportunities for fun, statement-making outfits for the new season. The good news is that there’s no need to overhaul an entire closet. Instead, there are plenty of on-trend colors, styles and patterns that can be incorporated into an existing wardrobe for a comfortable and casual look.

(StatePoint) The pandemic has made it clearer than ever -- maintaining good health is critical, and it all starts with having a health plan that works for you every day, and especially in times of greater need.

(StatePoint) With the days growing shorter and the weather getting cooler, it’s easy to fall into a rut during the fall season. Here’s how the latest technology can support your efforts to keep your mind and body active in the months ahead.

(StatePoint) The benefits of family quality time, which include positive impacts on mental health, reduced stress, promoting adaptability and more, are well understood. But the importance of creativity in families is less common knowledge.

(StatePoint) Some people shy away from orchids because they appear fragile, but mostly these gorgeous plants are just misunderstood.

(StatePoint) New research reveals that not only has America’s largest generation -- millennials -- become more civically engaged since the pandemic began, but that the time is right for nonprofits and companies to help all Americans see how profoundly they can influence social change.

(StatePoint) The average military spouse moves eight to 12 times in the span of a 20-year military career. Each move results in starting over in the new location and dealing with the struggle of meeting new people, sustaining meaningful employment, and feeling a sense of community in each new location.

(StatePoint) As the weather cools and women switch from open to closed shoe styles, the transition can be painful.

(StatePoint) Many people look forward to their retirement for years. However, once it begins, they may find all the newfound free time overwhelming.

(StatePoint) Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a rare disease that can be passed down from generation to generation within families. This condition causes numerous cysts to grow in the kidneys, resulting in the kidneys enlarging and losing function over time. Additionally, nearly 50 percent of affected patients over age 60 will experience kidney failure or end stage renal disease (ESRD). The most common form of PKD is Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) which, according to the National Kidney Foundation, accounts for nearly 90 percent of all PKD cases.

(StatePoint) We all have someone who has more than enough clothes, jewelry, artwork and overall “stuff,” that you just don’t know where to begin finding a gift they’ll need or want. The next time you need to come up with a clever birthday gift idea for them, try one of the following categories:

(StatePoint) The Peace Corps, established in 1961, partners with communities abroad to develop sustainable solutions for the world’s most pressing challenges at the grassroots level. While all volunteers returned home in March of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the agency is working to return to service and is now actively recruiting volunteers of backgrounds historically underrepresented in the organization, including African-Americans, Hispanic-Americans and Asian-Americans.

(StatePoint) When Chad VanCamp, 42, began feeling intense pain in his tailbone whenever he sat down, life changed. Suddenly, his favorite hobbies became unbearable and he began dreading everyday activities that most people wouldn’t think twice about -- car rides, airplane trips and even going out to dinner.

(StatePoint) A fall can result in unwanted outcomes, including injury, loss of independence, and a decreased ability to do the things that are most important to you or a loved one.

(StatePoint) Hate bugs? You’re not alone. Nearly seven in 10 Americans can’t sleep if they know there’s an insect in the room, according to a recent survey conducted by OnePoll for Zevo. The same poll also found that two in three Americans would give up a month’s pay to not deal with bugs!

(StatePoint) The best kitchen updates don’t just enhance the beauty of your space. They allow you to simplify your life, make better choices, and improve your relationship with your kitchen. And who knows? They may even make you a better cook! To that end, you may want to consider trading in your gas or electric cooktop for an induction model. If you’ve been keeping up with the Joneses and haven’t considered induction technology, that’s not surprising. While popular in Europe, adoption in the United States has been slower.

(StatePoint) Fall kick starts the financial road to college for parents of high school seniors. But if you’re like the majority of parents, you both value the importance of a college degree, while harboring anxiety about the price tag.  

(StatePoint) Whether you simply prefer doing things solo or you have a tight schedule that makes it difficult to commit to classes at set times of the week, you don’t need to forgo the pursuit of new hobbies. Here are five activities that you can take on completely on your own:

(StatePoint) Experts say that keeping your mind and body healthy through the years can reduce your risk for cognitive decline. Try taking on these new hobbies to keep your mind sharp as you age:

(StatePoint) The nearly 13 million small businesses owned by women nationwide are essential to the U.S. economy. Accounting for 42% of U.S. small businesses, they employ nearly 9.4 million people and generate $1.9 trillion in revenue annually.

(StatePoint) The pandemic has changed our lives in numerous ways. As a result of all the upheaval, many people are reassessing their priorities and thinking about early retirement. According to Pew Research, 28 million baby boomers retired in 2020 and a recent study found 39% plan to retire by 65, while 18% said they plan to retire by age 59. Before taking that step, here are four questions to ask yourself.

(StatePoint) If you haven’t visited your physician since the start of the pandemic, medical experts say that the time is now to book check-ups and screenings for the entire family.

(StatePoint) As a homeowner, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by necessary renovations and all the things you’d like to accomplish around your property. If your list of updates is long, but your time and budget are strapped, remember, even small changes can make a big impact.

(StatePoint) In case you missed it, wallpaper has made a comeback in the interior design world. This is for good reason. Today, there are literally millions of designs from which to choose. Not only that, new types of wallpaper can make application and removal easier than ever.

(StatePoint) Beyond sprucing up your work and living environs, there’s certainly much to love about houseplants, whether it’s the simple act of taking care of something or the fact that some varietals can even improve the air quality in your home (peace lilies, we’re looking at you).

(StatePoint) So, you’ve created the backyard of your dreams and love everything about it -- except that seeing your surroundings can sometimes be a challenge once the sun’s gone down. As the days grow shorter and we head into fall, it’s one of the best times of year to enhance your backyard life at night. 

(StatePoint) In the haste to break free from your pandemic routine, you may find your new schedule overwhelming and hectic. And with that, comes the inconvenience of misplacing commonly used items. According to a survey conducted by Bluetooth tracking company Pixie, Americans spend an average of 2.5 days out of each calendar year searching for lost items.

(StatePoint) Making your dorm room feel like home takes work and planning, but starting with a blank canvas allows you to bring your personality to life! Here are some fun, unique ideas to incorporate style and comfort into your space that you can enjoy while you study, socialize and sleep:

(StatePoint) If you’re like many Americans, having a better understanding of money management is a priority for you right now.

(StatePoint) If your casual baking hobby has turned into an obsession, you’re in good company. Baking swept the nation as a way to pass the time in 2020, with an overwhelming 84% of respondents identifying as bakers in an end-of-year Packaged Facts survey of Americans.

(StatePoint) Health equity means that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be as healthy as possible. Yet, according to a recently released report, Black women in the United States face a perfect storm of issues spanning across every aspect of the health care system and society at-large that are causing them to die about 40% more often from breast cancer than white women. Indeed, in some metropolitan areas, the gap can be as high as 74%

(StatePoint) Did you know many home and yard projects contain hidden dangers for your feet? The good news though, according to foot and ankle surgeons, is most injuries are avoidable if you take appropriate precautions.