Sun Protection and Seniors

Home Care in Park Slope NY

Spending time outside can be a lot of fun for seniors. It gets them out of the house, allowing them to enjoy new sights and sounds, and they might have hobbies outside, such as gardening, that bring them a great deal of pleasure. But spending time outside may also mean figuring out how to deal with sun exposure, especially as the weather gets hotter. Home care providers can help aging adults practice good habits when it comes to sun protection.

Use Sunscreen Daily

Sunscreen isn’t optional, really. It’s something that everyone should use to help block UVA and UVB rays and prevent damage from sun exposure that can lead to bigger problems, like skin cancer. Broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF rating of 30 or higher help to block more of these damaging sun rays and helps to protect skin. Seniors should use sunscreen every day on exposed areas of their skin, even if it’s a cloudy day outside. Elder care providers can help aging adults remember to apply sunscreen and make sure they’re not missing spots.

Wear Clothing That Blocks the Sun

Shirts and jackets with longer sleeves and pants help to block the sun as well. Wearing clothing made of lightweight materials helps seniors stay cool in hotter weather while also getting the protection they need from sun exposure. Wearing hats with a wider brim can protect the upper body and face from too much sun.

Seek Out Shade as Much as Possible

Seniors in particular need to pay attention to sun exposure because their skin is much thinner and more sensitive. When they’re outside, it helps to stick to shady areas. Using patio umbrellas and even a handheld umbrella if there aren’t any trees around is a great way to create shade in areas that might be too hot and too sunny otherwise.

Stay Hydrated

Another big issue for seniors in hotter weather is not drinking enough fluids. This is something seniors need to pay attention to no matter what time of year it is, though. Home care providers can work with seniors to figure out solutions that help them to get plenty of water, eat hydrating foods, and make sure they’re avoiding dehydration.

Pay Attention to UV Alerts

Most weather apps now offer UV alerts with forecast information. It might also be a good idea to encourage seniors to sign up for specific weather alerts, like UV warnings in their areas. These alerts help everyone to be aware of when sun exposure is more likely to be dangerous and cause burning or other skin damage easily. Staying indoors on days with a higher UV alert can help seniors stay more comfortable and avoid sun damage.

Seniors should reapply sunscreen every two hours at least. Sooner if they’re going swimming or if they’re sweating a lot. Home care providers can help seniors to stay on top of when it’s time to reapply sunscreen and whether it’s time to consider going inside. Staying alert for signs of heat-related illnesses or too much sun exposure helps seniors to stay safer and happier as they enjoy time outside.

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Park Slope, NY, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts at Home – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Westchester, Queens, Rockland today. 646-480-6266