Autumn in Australia is the most beautiful season of the year. Balmy days, gradually shortening, and a tinge of crispness in the air as the months wind on. Although this summer has been the wettest and coldest on record. Nevertheless, doctors surgeries are crammed with "change of season fallout", as I call it. Stupid little things that happen but should not happen. So here are a few tips as March winds on.

Be sensible in what you wear. Days will gradually cool (what’s new this year). The body hates sudden temperature changes. Germs are ever present in the air we breathe, and in our throats and nose. For every one degree drop in body temperature, chances an infection will become rapidly established increase by 100 per cent. If going out at night, specially, take something war, even though it may be hot when you leave home.

AVOID DRAFTS
Avoid sitting in drafts. This is a silent way of getting cold without noticing it. Don't sit between open windows and doors when cool air sweeps through, with you in the middle.

If you get wet, change to dry gear as soon as possible. Wet clothing quickly chills the body. Get rid of wet shoes and sox. Avoid standing on drafty street corners. Avoid smoking and the passive smoke of others, still a nuisance and a danger.

SENSIBLE FOOD
Eat healthful foods. Include sensible amounts of cereals, wholemeal bread, fruit, veggies, lean meat, legumes, fish nuts, berries, low fat dairy products in your weekly menu.

The greater the number of colours the better. Green, yellow, orange, purple, red - all are meaningful. They are all rich in vitamins, minerals, flavinoids, fibre, plus the standby protein, carbs and fat. Just in the right proportions as intended by nature. A bit of exercise each day is also essential, even if you walk a total of 30 minutes a day. This helps resist infection risks.

COMFY HOME
If you, or mum, dad, aunty, uncle, older friends, need accommodation as the family home becomes to big, call us at lovely "Vimiera Village" (David, 02 9868 7544). Many are lonely, find domestic chores tiring, or would like all meals provided, along with linen, laundry and domestic work and outdoor gardening and maintenance done by others, we have the answer for you. We are a non-profit Public Benevolent Institution that cares for seniors. Email david@macf.org.au

Good wishes till next month. Sincerely your friend,