Guardians of Our Skin: Understanding and Preventing Skin Cancer in Seniors
If you’re over the age of 40, you probably already can appreciate that getting older isn’t for the weary. Not only do we lose muscle mass and our metabolism slows as we age, but our skin too reflects how many trips we’ve taken around the sun. It may be of no surprise for you to read that seniors have a higher risk for skin cancer. Therefore, it’s important that older adults take great care to reduce their risk of skin cancer and do their best to nurture the largest organ of their bodies.
If you’re a senior, know that Visiting Angels Fond du Lac’s got your back. With the tips below, you can better understand how your skin changes with age and what steps you can take to prevent skin cancer from showing up in your future.
Seek Protection from the Sun
Although we understand that many seniors enjoy soaking up the sun, it’s extremely important that you avoid the sun or seek shade during the peak sun hours. Peak sun hours occur between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm and are the hours of the day when the sun’s rays are the strongest. If you do have plans to head outdoors during this time, we encourage you to wear protective clothing. Consider purchasing clothing with UV protection, make sure you have a wide-brimmed hat, and always wear your sunglasses. It’s also a good idea to invest in a patio umbrella or awning so that they have instant shade outdoors. Places like Wrightway Home Improvements or Menards have a wide selection of outdoor products and offer reliable installation services. Stores, such as DICK’s Sporting Goods, sell protective clothing that seniors can purchase to help protect their skin.
Apply Sunscreen Daily
Regardless of the time of day you’re planning to spend outdoors, another way seniors can prevent the risk of skin cancer is to apply sunscreen. Your sunscreen should be broad-spectrum with an SPF of 30 or higher. Even when it’s cloudy, you still need to put on sunscreen. If you plan to spend longer periods of time outdoors, reapply your sunscreen every two hours or after you’ve been swimming. Forefront Dermatology provides more information about sunscreen, how to apply it correctly, and which type to choose. Seniors can pick up a bottle of sunscreen at any local pharmacy, such as CVS, or general retailers, such as Target or Walmart.
Schedule Annual Skin Cancer Screenings
Another important step seniors can take in preventing skin cancer is to schedule annual skin cancer screenings with a dermatologist. Although your primary care physician may check your skin during an annual physical, dermatologists are experts in their fields. They can detect the slightest changes in your skin and keep track of suspicious areas or moles. During your skin cancer screening, ask your dermatologist about self-examination techniques so that you can feel confident monitoring your own skin at home. Looking for a practice to schedule your next skin cancer screening? Places like Forefront Dermatology or SSM Health can help.
Perform Skin Self-Examinations
As we mentioned in the previous tip, seniors can take charge of their health by performing skin self-examinations regularly. Follow the recommendations of your dermatologist and remember to take notes of any areas of concern you may have. Your dermatologist can give you specific guidance on what to look for and what to do should a suspicious area change over time.
In addition to regular skin cancer screenings, seniors should conduct regular skin self-examinations. While examining their skin, seniors should take note of any changes or abnormalities they observe. Dermatologists can give seniors specific guidance on what to look for, including new moles, changes in existing moles, and unusual skin growths. Forefront Dermatology offers comprehensive guidance and step-by-step instructions on how to conduct a thorough self-examination for skin cancer.
Visiting Angels Fond du Lac is committed to ensuring the safety of all seniors, especially when they are exposed to the sun. We offer professional care services to seniors which include assisting them in applying sunscreen, reminding them to stay in the shade, and keeping them company during the peak hours of the day. Our caregivers are also available to provide reliable transportation to doctor appointments so that seniors can attend their annual skin cancer screening. Families in Fond du Lac and beyond have recognized us as a top-tier provider of elderly care services. This is because we prioritize creating customized care plans that meet the unique needs and schedules of our beloved clients. To find out more about our services, please contact us today by calling 920-375-5555.