Summer is here! This is the season for relaxing by the beach, backyard cook-outs, enjoying the sunshine, and getting out of the house. You want to be able to enjoy as many outdoor activities as possible and protect your skin from UV rays while relaxing. 

July is UV Safety Awareness Month and with that in mind, it is useful to have some tips on how to protect yourself during those really sunny days. For Seniors, it’s especially important to protect your skin consistently because as you get older your skin is more likely to get damaged from UV rays from the sun, even if it’s cloudy outside.

With 1 in 5 Americans developing skin cancer over their lifetime (https://www.aad.org/media/stats-skin-cancer), it’s important for people to have strategies to keep their skin safe. Because we love our Seniors, we wanted to remind you of a few ways to enjoy your outside activities and keep your skin healthy at the same time. 

Care Choice Home Care’s Senior Safety for the Season!

         1. Lather Up With Sunscreen

No matter your age, it’s critical to put on sunscreen when planning on going outside, especially during the summertime. Even if it is cloudy outside the sneaky sun’s UV rays will get you. It’s essential to take the time to look for the correct sunscreen that will provide the proper protection, such as Broad Spectrum. This means that is at least 15 to 50 SPF. You must also be aware of the amount of sunscreen you put on your body and make sure you cover specific areas such as your face, neck, arms, ears, etc. For ease of application, you can even get the spray on kind. Some seniors have the added convenience of asking your home caregiver to apply sunscreen before going outside.

If you’re spending a decent amount of time outside, make sure you reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours. If you are swimming or doing activities that make you sweat, be sure to reapply in a shorter time frame. 

         2. Enjoy the Sun in the Shade

While the summer weather may be beautiful, that doesn’t mean you have to be directly under it as you spend your time appreciating the outdoors. Take breaks to relax in the shade under a tree to still get some fresh air but gain some protection from the sun’s rays. If you haven’t already, invest in buying a hat to wear to protect both your face and your neck. Hats come in many varieties and styles, just make sure it covers your exposed areas. 

Additionally, you can get clothing that is super comfortable and “airy” for hot weather that also has UV protection.

Recognize the different times of day when the sun is at its brightest, which is usually between 10am and 3pm, depending on where you’re located. Make the choice to stay in the shade or inside depending on the temperature that day. 

        3. Let’s not forget the Shades

Okay I know it’s not the skin, but we need to protect our eyes. There are many different kinds of sunglasses to choose from, just make sure they have Photochromatic lenses. These offer 100% protection from UV rays. Or you can find sunglasses that are UV 400. These additionally offer 100% protection.

        4. Get Regular Check-ups

Regular checkups are imperative to do on yourself as well as schedule a yearly appointment with your doctor to ensure that there aren’t any new marks, bumps, or moles. You can do this on your own in front of a mirror every month or so to keep track. If you see a new mole or suspicious mark, make sure you notify your doctor before your next appointment. 

Wrap-up

While you’re enjoying the amazing weather, you’ll have more fun knowing you’re taking the right steps to protect yourself from UV rays. At Choice Home Health Care, we strive to provide information and support to all our visitors and clients. Enjoy our Senior Safety for the Season.