“Safety in the Sun for Seniors”
The coming of summer provides many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether it’s an afternoon gardening or a day at the beach here are some basics for safe, smart time in the sun.
- 1. Sun stimulates Vitamin D production, quite a good thing. What to remember is that 15 minutes a day 2 to 3 times a week on the face and hands causes the body to produce and adequate supply of Vitamin D.
- 2. Sunscreen should be used anytime a senior is out in the sun more than 15 minutes. Use a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor of 15 and apply it every 2 hours
- 3. Cloudy days still require the use of sunscreen. The sun doesn’t feel and hot on cloudy days but UV radiation is still being absorbed by the skin. Seniors skin is more sensitive so sunscreen and sun protection are still needed when the clouds are out.
- 4. The sun can hurt your eyes. UV rays can cause cataracts, macular degeneration and skin cancer around the eyes. Seniors should always wear sun glasses. Choose brown, gray or green lenses and the darker and larger the lens the better. Glasses that wrap around the eyes block a higher percentage of UV rays.
Keeping these tips in mind will make your time in the sun safe and enjoyable. And remember to stay on the sunny side of the street!