Studies show that nearly 1 in 5 seniors will develop skin cancer before they turn 70. Most skin cancer diagnosed each year is diagnosed in people who are older than 65. Even though seniors have a very high risk of skin cancer only about 15% of older uses use sunscreen regularly. Skin cancer is usually preventable, but seniors must protect their skin to avoid skin cancer.
Sunscreen should be worn daily by seniors throughout the year. The sun can be damaging in the winter as well as during the summer. During the summer heat though seniors need to reapply sunscreen often because it will usually wear off quickly.
Seniors with personal care at home have an easier time remembering to wear sunscreen. Personal care at home helps seniors with skin care as well as things like showering or bathing or brushing their teeth. Seniors and their family members should know these tips to effectively use sunscreen to prevent skin cancer:
Choose The Right Sunscreen
According to the Environmental Working Group only a small percentage of commercial sunscreens are actually effective. That means choosing the right one is important. Experts say that seniors should choose a mineral based sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Avoid sunscreen sprays. Studies show they are not very effective. Also, many people don’t apply spray sunscreen properly which can leave their skin at risk. Seniors that aren’t sure what sunscreen to use can ask their doctor or pharmacist for a recommendation.
Make It A Habit To Put On Sunscreen Every Morning
Seniors should get into the habit of putting on sunscreen after they have washed up and brushed their teeth. Once applying sunscreen is a habit seniors won’t have to worry about whether or not they have applied sunscreen before they go out. Applying sunscreen should be an automatic part of a senior’s daily skin care regimen.
Use a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Experts also recommend that seniors look for sunscreens that specifically say “broad spectrum”. A broad-spectrum sunscreen will protect seniors from UVAB and UVA rays. More protection means a lower risk of developing skin cancer. A broad-spectrum sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30 is what all seniors should try to use daily. But senior should still wear a hat, sunglasses, and other sun protection if they’re going out on a sunny day.
Don’t Skimp On The Sunscreen
It may be surprising to learn that most seniors don’t use enough sunscreen to actually protect their skin. A thin layer of sunscreen on exposed skin isn’t enough to protect. Seniors should be applying about an ounce of sunscreen on all exposed skin to make sure that their skin is protected. A full ounce is about a shot glass worth of sunscreen. That should be applied to arms, legs, face, head, and any exposed skin. Seniors may need to reapply a full ounce of sunscreen throughout the day if they are going swimming or if they are sweating a lot.
Sources:
https://www.ocanamedicalcenter.com/sun-protection-guide-for-seniors
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/research/articles/older-adults-protect-skin-sun.htm
https://bethesdahealth.org/blog/2021/07/20/the-importance-of-sunscreen-for-seniors/
https://ncoa.org/article/skin-cancer-signs-symptoms-and-ways-to-stop-cancer-before-it-starts
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 personal care at home in Macon, 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.
- 4 Sunscreen Tips All Seniors Should Know - July 25, 2023