Summer is definitely here! While the summer season imbibes vibrant outdoors and fun, fun, fun under the sun, we seniors are encouraged to practice safe summer! It may not correspond with your idea of fun summer but you’ll surely thank yourself for staying safe in the long run!

· Remember that you are prone to heat stress so try to stay cool as much as possible. Chase the shade if you may.

· Avoid exhausting activities. This is the time when being a couch potato is totally encouraged. You can let go of your garden too or have someone to work on it while you enjoy your iced tea inside your home overlooking the garden.

· Drink lots of water. Tons. This is one of the most natural ways to cool down your body.

· Never go out when the sun is in its brightest. That means no going out between 9AM-3PM or whenever the sun is directly shining above your head.

· Direct sunlight is a big no-no. Avoid direct sunlight by all means. Wear a wide hat or carry an umbrella to protect your head, wear long sleeves and pants to protect your extremities, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Don’t forget to apply sunblock to protect your skin.

· Wear cotton. Cotton is the most ideal clothing material for summers since it is cool on skin and it absorbs perspiration. It also allows your skin to breathe comfortably.

· Avoid wearing dark colors since it absorbs heat making your skin feel hotter.

· Mall hop. If you need to do your exercise, seniors are encouraged to do their daily walkings in malls or anywhere that has air-conditioning unit to cool their bodies off.

· Everything iced! Ice your coffee, ice your tea – as much as possible when you drink, make sure that it is adequately iced.

· Educate yourself. Seniors should know when a heat stress is coming. You should know and be able to see the signs to prevent it from happening. If you feel that a heat stress is coming, make sure you are some place where somebody can help you. Seek help when needed.

· Eat watery, cool foods. Watermelon is really good, as well as melon and chilled fruits. Fruit juices and fresh greens are equally good too for seniors.

· Keep a cold compress within reach. In an event that you suddenly feel dizzy and nauseated, grab a cold compress and apply it on various parts of your body. A cold shower will also help bring down heat.