UV Skin Safety in Berks County, PA

1 in 5 U.S. adults over the age of 70 will develop skin cancer.

Did you know that the month of July has been designated as UV Safety Awareness Month? This is the perfect time to brush up on your skin safety facts. If you’ve been looking for tips to take care of your loved one’s skin in the sun, read on!

What Is Ultraviolet Radiation (UV)?

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are made up of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. Only UVA and UVB rays are strong enough to reach the surface of the Earth. UVA rays contribute to visual aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays can increase your risk of skin cancer. UV rays from the sun and from tanning beds are the main causes of skin cancer. The presence of UVA rays can make UVB rays even more harmful.

To put it plainly, UV rays coming from the sun can be super dangerous! When you are exposed to UV rays without protection, it can damage your eyes, skin, or even your immune system. Did you know that when you get a tan, that’s actually a response to injury from UV exposure? Use these tips to reduce damage to skin from UV:

• Sunscreen: Always wear sunscreen, even when it’s cloudy! Opt for broad-spectrum, as this protects against both UVA and UVB. Use a sun protection factor (SPF of at least 30). Don’t forget to apply it on your lips and hairline!
• Clothing & Accessories: Wear clothing that covers as much as possible. It’s a good idea to wear long sleeves and pants. You might also want to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Some clothing even has a UV protection factor (UPF).
• Avoid Direct Sun: If you can, stay inside or seek shade during the sun’s peak hours. The sun’s rays are strongest from the late morning to the late afternoon.

Where Can I Find Indoor Activities?

There are lots of places in Berks County where you can have a fun time indoors:

• Berks County Public Libraries has 23 locations throughout the region! Check out their libraries in Bernville, Boyertown, Fleetwood, Hamburg, Kutztown, Robesonia, Wernersville, Wyomissing, and Womelsdorf. They even have 4 locations in Reading, PA! Each library has a dedicated calendar of events, which range from bingo to summer reading to yoga.
• Berks Encore is a nonprofit organization supporting older adults. They’re the go-to resource for aging services and community programs in Berks County. They have 6 wellness and activity centers throughout the county, including locations in Douglassville, Fleetwood, Reading, Strausstown, and Wernersville. Each center offers congregate lunch along with fun activities, events, and classes centered around wellness.
• The Reading Public Museum has interactive displays and original art, as well as a planetarium and arboretum. You can register for a sensory-inclusive experience, which is free with your museum ticket. Their Senior Series runs on the fourth Friday of each month. They’re hosting a viewing of the Hershey Gardens documentary at their next session on July 31.

Is There In-Home Support?

We’re Griswold Home Care for Berks County, a provider of non-medical in-home care services. Based in Wyomissing, we can help you with everything from companion care to 24-hour home care. Your Griswold Caregiver can support your loved one’s hobbies and may be able to accompany them on outings, too. Use the button below to give us a call and learn more!