When we hit 65 (or 50, or 100, or really anywhere in between) many of us think, I’ve retired, I get to relax, why do I need goals?

Goals keep people motivated, allow them to work towards something and experience success and give us reasons to act with new and differing communities.

Summer goals may sounds a lot like New Years Resolutions, but they don’t have to be. Here’s a few goals we suggest tackling this spring, chances are, they’ll also improve your overall health.

1. Go outside more often and be as active as you can. Tend a garden, offer to walk the neighbors dog, play with your grand kids or simply sit out doors. Even if your mobility is low, being outside can do wonders for your health. It allows you to absorb essential vitamins such as Vitamin D as well as has been proven to improve your move. Any light exercise you can do will also help to release endorphins.

2. Set aside a day each week where you make plans with a friend or family member. As we get older, we often become more reserved, especially if we continue to live at home into our later years. By setting aside a time each week, you can ensure that you’ll not only be leaving the house but getting the interaction that as human beings we need. Whether it’s a lunch, walk, card game, watching your grandchild’s baseball game, it counts so long as you leave the house.

3. Try new foods. By about 10, we pretty well know what foods we like… or so we think. Try some foods you hated as a child and see if you’ve developed a taste for them. You might find some new fruits, veggies or lean meats you love, giving you a better variety of vitamins and nutrients for your body.

4. Keep the house clean. We often let house work slide until someone comes over, but if you set out a schedule allowing you to do 1-2 tasks a day you can increase your overall activity level gradually. This is great for people looking to improve their mobility. In many cases, the more you move, the better you will feel over a longer length of time as muscles become more use to the workload. Be sure to do this very gradually and only take on tasks you know you are likely to be able to complete. If you’re not sure that you have the strength or ability, play it safe, or ask a family member for help the first time. Always check with your doctor if you have concerns.

5. Make time for family time. Our family keeps us connected, and is the first and strongest support system many of us will ever have. They cheer us on, make us happier, and cause us enough strife to get the adrenaline going on occasion. Don’t underestimate the impact even a day a week with your family can have on your mood and overall health.

Whatever goal you choose to set, make sure that it is manageable and realistic for you. Set short term goals within your long term to allow you to see success on a regular basis.