Sun Safety Tips for Seniors in Chester & Lancaster Counties

As summer approaches, the sun’s rays become stronger, making it essential for seniors in Chester and Lancaster Counties to take extra precautions against harmful UV exposure.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, just five sunburns over a lifetime can more than double the risk of developing melanoma. Approximately 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, making sun safety measures fundamental.

Your skin is the body’s largest organ, emphasizing the importance of taking extra precautions when heading outside to help yourself or a loved one enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely. Read on to learn safety measures and how Griswold can help you prepare for the sun’s rays in Lancaster, Kennett Square, Millersville, West Chester, and other surrounding areas.

Why are seniors more prone to UV rays?

As we age, our skin becomes thinner and loses some of its ability to repair itself. This puts seniors at a higher risk of the damaging effects of UV rays, increasing the risk of skin cancer. Many seniors also have a history of sun exposure without past protection, making it ever so important to be mindful of your skin.

Risk Factors

Be vigilant and proactive in protecting your skin this summer to avoid serious burns and the risk of skin cancer. Melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, develops from UV radiation exposure and can affect individuals of all ages. However, it is often considered a disease of older adults, with about half of melanoma cases occurring in people over the age of 50. The median age of diagnosis is 59. As our skin becomes thinner and less elastic with age, it’s crucial to take extra precautions to protect your skin.

How to Protect Yourself

Implementing simple sun safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of skin damage:

1. Wear Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. It’s also important to look at the label and search for terms, “blocks UVA and UVB” or “broad spectrum”.
2. Pay Attention to Time: The sun’s rays are strongest between 11 AM and 3 PM; limit sun exposure during these hours when possible. Be sure to stay diligent in applying correctly and reapplying. Sunscreen should be applied 20 minutes before being in the sun and then reapplied every 2 hours.
3. Wear Protective Clothing: Prioritize covering your skin as much as possible by wearing protective clothing such as hats, long-sleeved shirts, and pants. Loose and light-colored clothing can help balance the feeling of wearing too many layers. UV-filtered sunglasses can protect you from the sun’s harmful effects, too.
4. Hydrate & Shade: Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. Seniors should try to limit their time under direct sunlight by staying in air-conditioned areas, taking small breaks, or simply sitting in the shade.

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Heat-related illnesses are something to always be cautious of. Be aware of the signs and symptoms that can occur when outdoors for heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Recognizing the signs can be lifesaving:

• Heat Exhaustion: muscle cramps, headaches, nausea
• Heat Stroke: high body temperature, confusion, seizures

Griswold Care Pairing for Chester & Lancaster Counties is here to help

At Griswold Care Pairing for Chester and Lancaster Counties, we understand the unique needs of seniors during the summer months. Our referred Caregivers are prepared to assist you with sun safety measures, ensuring that your loved ones stay protected and comfortable. Whether we can help apply sunscreen, monitor sun exposure, or provide hydration reminders, we are here to support you! If you’re soaking up sun at Marsh Creek State Park, paddling the Brandywine River, unwinding by your pool or club, or just relaxing in your backyard in Chester or Lancaster County, we’re dedicated to helping protect you and our community from harmful rays.

Contact us Today

Reach out to us for personalized care and support. We refer Caregivers throughout Chester County, including Malvern, West Chester, and Exton, extending into Lancaster County, covering areas such as Lancaster, New Holland, Gap, and the surrounding areas. Together, we can make this summer safe and enjoyable for you and your loved one.