Taking proper care when seniors are outside protects them from all sorts of issues, including ultraviolet radiation. UV rays are a big problem on hot, sunny days, but many seniors don’t realize that UV rays can be just as harmful on partially cloudy days, too. Home care assistance can help seniors to stay safer when they’re outside and likely to experience UV exposure.

Some Sun Exposure Can Be Good

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient. It helps with all sorts of health conditions but is especially important for seniors in terms of bone health. Seniors can get vitamin D from the food they eat, but the easiest way to get it is through sun exposure. The body manufactures vitamin D from just a few minutes of sunlight.

Sun Safety Is Crucial

Even with all the good that vitamin D can do, too much sun exposure is not so good. UV rays can lead to premature aging of the skin, including wrinkles, but it can do far worse, too. UV rays also cause sunburn and can lead to skin cancer. Staying safe in the sun involves taking a few different steps on a consistent basis. Wearing sunscreen with a high SPF factor every day is something seniors need to start doing.

Protective Clothing Can Help Somewhat

Wearing protective clothing, like long-sleeved shirts and pants, can help to protect against the sun’s rays. Some clothing has built-in UV protection, making it an even better choice. Seniors should also consider wearing hats with wide brims that help to cover their eyes, face, and upper chest. This offers coverage in addition to that offered by sunscreen.

Hydration and Shade Are Essential

Staying out of direct sunlight is a good idea, especially during the times of the day when the sun’s rays are more direct. Sticking to shaded areas allows seniors to be outside and enjoy the fresh air without worrying about burning or experiencing direct exposure to sunlight. Drinking plenty of water helps to avoid dehydration, which can cause other health problems for seniors.

Prioritize Eye Protection

All too often people forget about eye protection in the sun. It’s about more than being stylish. First, sunglasses help seniors to see better in bright sunlight. But the lenses should also offer protection. Lenses that block both UVA and UVB rays help to protect eyes from issues like cataracts. Elder care providers can help to remind seniors to wear eye protection when they go outside.

Some Medications Make Sun Exposure Worse

It’s important for seniors to understand that some medications have side effects that can make sun exposure worse. These medications increase the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, which can increase the risk of burning and other issues. Talk to medical professionals about medications to understand how seniors might be affected by sun exposure.
Even a little bit of sun exposure can have some serious impacts on a senior’s health and well-being. The more that family caregivers and seniors know about avoiding sun damage, the healthier seniors are going to be. Home care assistance can be there to help aging adults manage their day to take advantage of being outside in fresh air but doing so safely.

The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable home care in Gainesville, GA, and the surrounding areas. Call (770) 965-4004 for more information.

We provide elder care in Braselton, Buford, Dacula, Duluth, Flowery Branch, Gainesville, Johns Creek, Lawrenceville, Oakwood, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Barrow County, Forsyth County, Gwinnett County, Hall County, Jackson County, North Fulton County.

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Valerie Darling

Founder, Owner at Home Care Matters

Valerie was born in Miami, FL and after a few family moves, grew up locally in the Marietta, GA area.Valerie is the oldest of 4 (3 younger brothers).She is married and has one child.Valerie is the Founder, Owner and CEO of Home Care Matters.Valerie’s mom, Dee, is the inspiration and primary driver as the how and why the business was born.Valerie says, “My mom is never far from our thoughts.Mom was an integral part of developing and starting HCM before she passed away.Our goal is to stay true to her memory and continue to honor her with the love, values, and ethics she taught us.”

Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”

Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”

You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).

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