Because older adults are more susceptible to skin cancer, it is essential that they take the proper measures to protect their skin and make it an everyday routine. Seniors can enjoy the outdoors this summer, but we encourage following these #UVSafetyTips to make it more enjoyable.☀️👒🧴 . By focusing on prevention and healthy lifestyle choices, seniors can help minimize the effects of aging on their skin so they can continue to enjoy their golden years.
Help seniors keep their skin safe this summer with these tips:
💧Drink plenty of water when outside to keep skin healthy and hydrated
🧴Moisturize skin daily to prevent dryness and keep skin smooth
🚭Avoid smoking. It can accelerate skin aging
🍌🥕🌾Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Skin Care Suggestions for Seniors
Protecting the skin is important at any age, but it becomes even more critical for seniors. A senior skincare routine can address these changes and help keep the skin healthy and vibrant. By focusing on prevention and a healthy lifestyle, seniors can help minimize the effects of aging on their skin and enjoy healthy skin throughout their golden years.
Taking some steps to protect their skin can help seniors enjoy sunny days without worry:
Regular dermatologist visits: Monitor changes and identify potential issues early on. If prone to moles, regular checking is essential.
Apply sunscreen indoors or outdoors: Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to help to protect the skin from the sun's intense UV rays. Even a short walk to and from the car or sitting by a sunny window can cause some damage. If outdoors, reapply every two hours and after water activities.
Wear protective clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats can help shield skin from the sun. Tightly woven sun-blocking shirts and pants are a good option.
Plan summer fun to avoid peak sun hours: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so it's best to avoid spending extended periods outdoors during these hours. Schedule activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep skin hydrated and healthy.
Moisturize daily: Moisturizing daily can help prevent dryness and keep skin looking smooth and supple.
Avoid smoking: Smoking can accelerate the skin’s aging process and cause premature wrinkles and fine lines.
Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help provide the nutrients needed to keep skin healthy.
Skin Cancer and Seniors
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and seniors are particularly susceptible. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 50 percent of all new cases of skin cancer occur in people over the age of 65. It is also the most preventable type of cancer, making senior skincare even more important.
The good news is that when caught early, skin cancers such as basal cells or squamous cells are highly treatable by removal. The cure rate for basal cells is over 95 percent and about 90 percent for squamous cells.
Melanoma is more likely to spread to other parts of the body and can be more difficult to treat if not caught early.
How to Identify Skin Cancer
Unusual skin growths often happen in areas regularly exposed to the sun. Many doctors include a skin check as part of a regular exam and recommend monthly home checks as well. Here are a few things to look for when checking the skin at home:
- A new mole or growth on the skin that is a weird shape or has different colors or shades
- Any mole or growth that changes in size, shape, or color
- A mole or growth that is larger than a pencil eraser
- A sore that does not heal within a few weeks
- A spot or growth that is itchy, painful, or bleeds
While not all skin changes or growths are cancerous, having any concerns checked out by a doctor as soon as possible is always a good idea. Check out more information on skin cancer and how it impacts seniors.
It's summer and we all want to get outside and enjoy the nice weather. Let's stay safe and have fun while we do it!