Balance is the key to almost everything, right? Sunlight is a great source of Vitamin D for seniors, but too much sunlight can quickly become harmful. The need for sun protection is especially important for seniors who often have very fragile skin. Some seniors take medications that have increased sun sensitivity as an unavoidable side effect. Since July is UV Safety Month, our assisted living caregivers at Pitman have put together a list of sun safety tips for our senior loved ones.
Essential Sun Safety Tips for Seniors
Tip #1: Sunscreen,
sunscreen, and more sunscreen. Even if mom or dad only goes outside to water their garden or go for a
short walk, encourage them to wear sunscreen and reapply often! The risk of
developing or dying from skin cancer rises each year. When using sunscreen or
applying it to a senior loved one, make sure it is at least SPF 30 and offers
broad-spectrum protection. This ensures the sunscreen will absorb 97% of the
sun’s rays, including UVA and UVB. It also helps to switch between different
modes of sunscreen. Try using a spray sunscreen for a base coat and then a
lotion to get those hard to reach spots.
Tip #2: Avoid the
sun during peak UV hours. Mom
or dad’s new best friend: the shade. The sun’s UV rays are usually strongest
between 10am to 4pm. This means it’s best to limit their sun exposure during
those times or make sure they stay in the shade. However, it’s important to
keep in mind that trees, umbrellas and canopies do not offer complete sun
protection. Wearing sunscreen is always a must, even if they are out of direct
sunlight.
Tip #3: Utilize
long sleeves, sunglasses and long-brimmed hats when possible. Along with sunscreen, wearing certain items of
clothing will provide extra coverage from the sun. Long-brimmed hats offer good
sun protection for the ears, face and neck. Sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA
and UVB protection will greatly reduce eye damage from the sun. Last but not
least, long sleeves and long pants will protect the arms and legs from
additional sun exposure.
Staying cool at UMC at Pitman
UMC at Pitman,
our assisted
living community near West Deptford, provides many opportunities for
seniors to have fun in the sun, while remaining safe from its harmful UV rays.
Our associates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide
assistance with daily tasks, including applying and reapplying sunscreen. They
could also recommend the best spots on campus to hang in the shade!
For more information
on our assisted living services in Pitman, NJ, please visit our website
at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/
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