In the 1960s and 70s, sunblock or sunscreen was just about non-existent. Sun protection factor numbers (SPF) hovered around two, four, or eight – a drastic difference from today’s minimum recommendation of 30. People strived to get as tan as they could, and the importance of sunscreen was unknown.

Eventually, however, people came to realize that the sun was causing devastating health consequences – the most prevalent being skin cancer.

Sunburned skin, or even tanned skin, is damaged skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the “glow” of tanned skin is evidence of DNA injury, and increases the likelihood of the three most common skin cancers: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma – the most aggressive and most deadly type of skin cancer.

Since the skin becomes more vulnerable and delicate as we age, it’s no surprise that most skin cancers are found in people 65 and older – reinforcing the importance of sunscreen for seniors.

Yet, a 2015 National Health Interview survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that many older adults don’t adequately protect their skin from the sun. The five most effective tips for preventing sun damage are:

  • stay in the shade
  • use sunscreen
  • wear a wide-brimmed hat
  • wear clothing to the ankles
  • wear a long-sleeved shirt

According to the survey, only about 15 percent of older adults and 8 percent of sun-sensitive older adults regularly used all five kinds of sun protection. Nearly 18 percent of older adults said they didn’t use any kind of sun protection regularly.

Proper Sunscreen Usage

UV ray exposure can cause skin damage in as little as 15 minutes, and it’s no surprise why – some UV rays can even penetrate glass! A person can be sitting inside a house near a large window, or riding in a car, and still need sunscreen. Also, cloudy days are no protection from the sun.

Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are the main cause of sunburns.  It should be sweat-proof or waterproof. The SPF should be at least 30, as the higher the number, the smaller the protection difference becomes (SPF 30 filters out about 97 percent of the UVB rays. SPF 50 filters out 98 percent).

Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before your exposure to the sun, and reapplied every two hours. If you are sweating or swimming, the importance of sunscreen application is even more prevalent.

Check the expiration date on the sunscreen. Most are good for two or three years, unless they’ve been exposed to heat for long periods (such as in a hot car). Read and follow the directions for the sunscreen being used. The most common mistake people make when using sunscreen is not applying enough.

Research has shown little difference in effectiveness between sunscreen sticks, sprays, gels or cream. Buying several different types can make it easier to protect hard-to-reach parts of the body. Sticks are good for noses and ears. Sprays and creams cover larger body areas. Gels adhere better on areas with hair, like the hairline or scalp.

Sun Exposure Risk Factors

Aside from exposure to ultraviolet light (including tanning beds), other factors place people at more risk. They include:

  • Having light-colored skin
  • Being older
  • Being male
  • Radiation exposure. People who have had radiation treatment have a higher risk of developing skin cancer in the area they received treatment.
  • Previous skin cancer
  • Long-term or severe skin inflammation or injury. Scars from severe burns, areas of skin over severe bone infections, and skin damaged by some severe inflammatory skin diseases.
  • Treatment for psoriasis. Psoralens and ultraviolet light (PUVA) treatments given to some patients with psoriasis can increase the risk of skin cancer.
  • Weakened immune system. This includes people treated with large doses of corticosteroid drugs.

Some medications increase sensitivity to the sun. Some of these include:

  • antibiotics
  • antifungals
  • antihistamines
  • cholesterol-lowering drugs
  • diuretics
  • non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration provides more information.

Seniors should check with their physician to see if their medications place them at an increased risk for skin damage from the sun.

Other Precautions

Seniors can further reduce their risk by avoiding peak exposure times to sunlight – usually from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sun-protective clothing is also available. The fabric is rated by the Skin Cancer Foundation according to the degree of protection it provides from the sun’s rays.

Take a look at our blog for more safe practices for seniors this summer. 

Whether you choose independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing, your experience at Bethesda will be filled with compassionate care and meaningful connections. If you are considering independent living, we encourage you to tour our communities, including Bethesda Barclay House – Clayton, Bethesda Gardens – Kirkwood, Bethesda Orchard – Webster Groves, Bethesda Terrace – South County, Village North Retirement Community – Florissant, and The Oaks at Bethesda Villas – Kirkwood/Webster. If you have any questions about our non-profit senior living communities, contact us today.
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