We all love to take in those warm summer rays, but everyone must remember to protect their skin and eyes from the damaging effects of the sun. Unprotected sun exposure can cause vision problems and damage to your eyes, suppression of the immune system, premature aging of the skin, and skin cancer. No matter if you are a senior or a child, it’s so important to be wise about sun exposure. Caregivers for seniors living at home, in assisted living and memory care should take time to make sure their client follows the following tips. 

• Cover Up: Wearing a hat (preferably wide brimmed) or other shade-protective clothing can partly shield your skin from the harmful effects of UV ray exposure. Proper clothing may include long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats. All senior helpers should make sure they are protecting their senior every day. 

• Wear sunglasses. Protect your eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses — even on cloudy days! Make sure that home care providers are putting sunglasses on their clients. Be sure to look for sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB radiation. 

• Stay in the Shade: The sun’s glare is most intense at midday. Staying in the shade between the hours of 10am and 4pm will further protect your skin. The sun can still damage your skin on cloudy days or in the winter. For this reason, it is important to stay protected throughout the year.

• Choose the Right Sunscreen: This is extremely important. It is recommended that you use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, and it should protect against both Ultraviolet A (UV-A) and Ultraviolet B (UV-B) rays.

• Use the Right Amount of Sunscreen: According to the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention, most people apply only 25-50 percent of the recommended amount of sunscreen. When out in the sun, it’s important that you apply at least one ounce (a palmful) of sunscreen every two hours. You should apply it more often if you are sweating or swimming, even if the sunscreen is waterproof. Your home care provider or senior helper should make sure that you use enough sunscreen.

By taking the proper precautions and following this advice you and your loved ones can enjoy the sun.  If you are having any problems after being in the sun, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider.

By taking the proper precautions and following this advice you and your loved ones can enjoy the sun.  If you are having any problems after being in the sun, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider.