Roughly 20% of Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they reach the age of 70. Receiving multiple sunburns increases your risk of developing melanoma.
As a senior citizen, it’s important to stay aware of your habits so you can avoid any contributing factors to diseases like skin cancer. Going outside and staying active is essential for staying healthy. However, there is a limit to how much time you should spend in the sun.
Here is your guide to sun safety for seniors and how to protect your skin.
The Importance of Sun Safety for Seniors
Sun safety tips for seniors are important because of their particular vulnerability to excessive sun exposure.
As people age, their skin becomes thinner and less resilient to damage. UV rays that are normally tolerated can cause issues such as skin cancer if seniors don’t use protection.
Introverted seniors who like to stay at home may not find themselves at risk of too much sun exposure. However, there are plenty of public amenities and activities available at assisted living communities that encourage residents to leave their homes.
Seniors must take the necessary precautions if they plan to spend time outdoors. They should also know the risks, including:
- Potential weakened immune system
- Overheating
- Risk of dehydration
- Sunburn
- Increased risk of skin cancer and melanoma
Outdoor Elderly Safety Measures
There are some senior safety precautions residents can take when participating in their community’s various activities. Precautions can range from wearing protective clothing to only going out when sunlight is at a minimum. It all depends on the individual and how often they spend outside.
Stay Hydrated
The first way to improve home safety for elderly people is to stay hydrated. Hydration is key for every person, regardless of whether they spend all of their time indoors or outdoors. It’s especially important if they’re outside in the heat, exposed to the sun for long periods.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid sugar drinks, alcohol, or caffeine. These can dehydrate you and lead to overheating. It helps to keep water bottles accessible at all times around the house.
Wear Protective Clothing
Another way to stay protected when outdoors is with the right kind of clothing. Seniors should wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs. Full coverage helps to prevent sunburn and can actually keep them cooler.
Darker fabrics can provide more UV protection than lighter ones. The same applies to denser weaves. Of course, you’ll also need to take into account the temperature outside when considering darker or thicker clothing.
Apply Sunscreen Regularly
One of the best ways to prevent sunburn and protect your skin is with sunscreen. Applying sunscreen should become a daily routine as you get older and can benefit people of all ages.
Find a sunscreen option with an SPF of at least 30, providing broad-spectrum protection. Reapply it every two hours when outside, and cover all areas of your body.
If you don’t like chemical sunscreen, you can always use a mineral one. It may leave a white tint, but it won’t feel as greasy on the skin.
Avoid Peak Sun Hours
The sun’s rays are strongest around noontime from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. These hours will change depending on the season.
Keep the peak sun hours in mind if you plan to spend time outside. You can reduce the risk of sunburn and heat-related illnesses by taking more breaks during this time or waiting until later in the day to go out.
Wear plenty of sunscreen and extra protective clothing if you do spend time in the sun during these hours.
Create Safe Outdoor Spaces at Home
Seniors who enjoy spending time outside may want to create a safe, shaded space on their own property. Awnings, umbrellas, and gazebos are all great ways to provide shaded outdoor seating areas. Trees can also provide natural shade.
Protecting seniors at home is as simple as putting up privacy fences and providing comfortable chairs. It also helps to have water available nearby for hydration.
Stay Aware of Sun Sensitivity
Some medications may cause seniors to become more sensitive to the sun, otherwise known as photosensitivity. Common prescriptions for blood pressure, arthritis, and antibiotics can cause these side effects.
Seniors should always consult their doctors to determine if their medications have any side effects that can impact their normal activities. They may discover that important medications can cause dehydration, dizziness, or nausea.
Watch for Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses
The biggest issue with excessive sun and heat is that it can be difficult to gauge how it’s affecting your body. The biggest indicator that you’re hot is sweat. However, you may not sweat as much due to your medication if you’re dehydrated or if you live in a dry area.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache, and weakness. You can prevent these symptoms by staying hydrated and utilizing cool, shaded areas.
Encourage Frequent Breaks
Seniors who enjoy spending time outside gardening or walking should take frequent breaks to cool off and let their skin recover from the sun. These breaks provide a good opportunity to rehydrate and reapply sunscreen.
If you notice that you feel dizzy or nauseous, then you may need a wet towel to help cool your body. You can always go inside to sit in front of a fan or the AC for some extra cooling. A hop in the shower is another way to quickly cool your body and clean up for your afternoon activities.
Go Outside and Enjoy the Sun
Sun safety for seniors can help your loved ones spend time outside without putting their health at risk. It’s especially important if they want to avoid skin cancer or overheating in a hotter city or state.
Morada Southridge is a pet-friendly assisted living community located in Oklahoma City. Our goal is to provide a home for residents where they can feel as independent as possible while receiving the help they need. Reach out today with any questions and to schedule a visit.
