5 Fun Ways for Seniors to Keep Cool as Summer Approaches
Crane’s Mill resident reading a book in our library.
1. Visit your local library. The library has come a long way in recent years, transforming into a multi-media haven not only reserved for the newest books and periodicals—there are DVDs, CDs, and so much more available for free. Why not stop by the library, grab a gripping novel you’ve never read, check out a movie you’ve heard good things about, and pick up a CD of hits from your youth. Before you know it, you’ll have spent hours perusing all sorts of fun stuff, and you’ll be prepped and ready to embark on number two on our list…
2. Enjoy the air conditioner. There’s nothing quite like the modern comfort of a simple air conditioner. Whether it’s a window unit or central air, take advantage of staying indoors during the heat of the day. Experts say the sun is strongest from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., but be sure to check your local forecast for when the heat and sun will cause the most damage for the day, and choose those hours to sit back, relax and enjoy a book, movie, tv show, some music, or make a long overdue phone call to a loved one. Here’s an air conditioning tip: make sure you or someone you trust cleans your air conditioning filters and preps the system for the summer so you can enjoy the cool, clean air once it’s needed.
3. Visit a museum. Chances are, there are local museums that you haven’t visited in a long time, and some you may have never yet experienced! At Crane’s Milll, we have an array of museums nearby in Montclair, Morristown, and of course New York City, and we arrange trips out to each of them on a regular basis. To get started, look in the local paper or search the web for the latest exhibits and classes. Many are free or discounted for seniors.
4. Volunteer for a good cause. So many local charities and organizations need help, and with key personnel on summer vacations, sometimes they need an extra hand or two to help out. You may find yourself doing something simple like stuffing envelopes or something more involved like coordinating a charity drive or laying out a fundraising journal. Since school is out of session, ask if you can bring along a grandchild or niece or nephew so you can spend some quality time doing something new and interesting.
The stage is set for a fun way to stay cool!
5. Take in a matinee. Whether it’s a musical, drama, or even a movie, the theatre is always a fun time. Sure, this one might cost a little more than the other suggestions on the list, but there’s no harm in treating yourself once in a while. Plus there are likely senior discounts on what might already be discounted matinee prices. It doesn’t need to be Broadway either—look in the local paper or search the web for community theaters and other groups who perform in the summer. You may find something you’ve never seen before or discover a new take on an old favorite.
How do you like to keep cool in the summer? Click here to send us an email…we look forward to hearing your suggestions!