As the summer sun shines brighter, seniors need to take extra care when spending time outdoors.
As we age, our skin becomes more vulnerable to harmful UV rays, making sun safety for seniors more important than ever. Without proper protection, exposure to the sun can lead to severe sunburns, dehydration, and even heatstroke.
But with a few simple steps, older adults can enjoy the summer while protecting their skin and staying safe!
What you will learn:
Seniors don’t retain moisture as well, which makes them more prone to dehydration. Dehydrated skin is more likely to burn, crack, and show signs of aging.
So, seniors need to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially in the heat. Water, hydrating fruits, and vegetables can help keep the skin moisturized and healthy.
To prevent sunburn, stay indoors during peak sun hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you have to go outside, make sure to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing. Also, keep an eye out for signs of redness or discomfort. If you feel your skin getting hot or tight, seek shade immediately.
Seniors can experience sunburn quickly, so keep a close eye on them to ensure they’re not experiencing any adverse reactions to the sun.
Skin cancer can develop slowly over time, often in areas exposed to the sun. Regular self-exams and visits to the dermatologist are key.
If you notice any new or changing spots on your skin, whether they’re raised, itchy, or changing color, make an appointment to get them checked out.
Whether it’s an afternoon stroll, a picnic in the park, or simply being outside for a few minutes longer than planned, sunburns can happen. When they do, taking proper care of your skin afterward is crucial to reduce discomfort and minimize long-term damage.
Here are a few effective strategies for after-sun care:
Applying aloe vera gel regularly after sun exposure will help hydrate and heal the skin.
Applying moisturizer immediately after showering or bathing is ideal, as the skin is still damp and will absorb the hydration more effectively.
Opt for lukewarm water and gentle cleansing products to wash off sweat, sunscreen, or impurities. Avoid scrubbing the skin, as it can disrupt the healing process and lead to peeling.
But we’ve got your back. Whether you need a little help finding the right rhythm this summer or want something more permanent, we’re here to help~
BrightStar Care of West Portland is here with the resources and support you need to help your loved one thrive. We invite you to contact us today if you would like to learn more about our wide range of caregiving services! Our office is at 1675 SW Marlow Ave, Suite 405, Portland, OR 97225. You can also reach us by phone at (503) 482-2396. We look forward to connecting with you!
As we age, our skin becomes more vulnerable to harmful UV rays, making sun safety for seniors more important than ever. Without proper protection, exposure to the sun can lead to severe sunburns, dehydration, and even heatstroke.
But with a few simple steps, older adults can enjoy the summer while protecting their skin and staying safe!
What you will learn:
- How to keep seniors safe and comfortable during summer.
- Essential sun safety practices for seniors.
- The importance of regular skin checks, after-sun care, and gentle skincare routines.
Summer Skin Care for Seniors: Stay Hydrated
Hydration plays a huge role in senior skin health during the summer months.Seniors don’t retain moisture as well, which makes them more prone to dehydration. Dehydrated skin is more likely to burn, crack, and show signs of aging.
So, seniors need to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially in the heat. Water, hydrating fruits, and vegetables can help keep the skin moisturized and healthy.
Sunburn Prevention for Seniors: Avoid the Burn
Sunburn can happen faster than you think!To prevent sunburn, stay indoors during peak sun hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you have to go outside, make sure to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing. Also, keep an eye out for signs of redness or discomfort. If you feel your skin getting hot or tight, seek shade immediately.
Seniors can experience sunburn quickly, so keep a close eye on them to ensure they’re not experiencing any adverse reactions to the sun.
Senior Skin Cancer Prevention: Regular Skin Checks Are Crucial
As seniors, skin cancer prevention should be at the top of your health checklist, especially for those who tend to burn.Skin cancer can develop slowly over time, often in areas exposed to the sun. Regular self-exams and visits to the dermatologist are key.
If you notice any new or changing spots on your skin, whether they’re raised, itchy, or changing color, make an appointment to get them checked out.
Preventing Sun Damage for Seniors: After-Sun Care
Even with the best precautions, sometimes sun exposure is unavoidable.Whether it’s an afternoon stroll, a picnic in the park, or simply being outside for a few minutes longer than planned, sunburns can happen. When they do, taking proper care of your skin afterward is crucial to reduce discomfort and minimize long-term damage.
Here are a few effective strategies for after-sun care:
- Aloe Vera Gel for Soothing Relief.
Applying aloe vera gel regularly after sun exposure will help hydrate and heal the skin.
- Moisturizing with Hydrating Lotions or Creams.
Applying moisturizer immediately after showering or bathing is ideal, as the skin is still damp and will absorb the hydration more effectively.
- Antioxidant-Rich Skincare Products.
- Avoiding Hot Showers and Scrubbing.
Opt for lukewarm water and gentle cleansing products to wash off sweat, sunscreen, or impurities. Avoid scrubbing the skin, as it can disrupt the healing process and lead to peeling.
- Skin Repair Masks or Treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should seniors reapply sunscreen?
Seniors should reapply sunscreen every two hours or more often if swimming or sweating. Don't forget to apply it generously to all exposed skin, including behind the ears and face.Can seniors use regular sunscreen, or should they look for something specific?
Seniors should look for broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher. For sensitive skin, there are mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that provide excellent protection.What are the early signs of heatstroke in seniors?
Early signs of heatstroke in seniors include dizziness, confusion, nausea, and hot, dry skin. If you notice any of these symptoms, get your loved one to a cool place and hydrate immediately.Contact BrightStar Care of West Portland Today!
If the summer heat has you overwhelmed, we understand! There’s a lot to think through in senior summer skin care!But we’ve got your back. Whether you need a little help finding the right rhythm this summer or want something more permanent, we’re here to help~
BrightStar Care of West Portland is here with the resources and support you need to help your loved one thrive. We invite you to contact us today if you would like to learn more about our wide range of caregiving services! Our office is at 1675 SW Marlow Ave, Suite 405, Portland, OR 97225. You can also reach us by phone at (503) 482-2396. We look forward to connecting with you!