If you are a Pennsylvania senior who values exploring the outdoors during the summer months, you're certainly not alone. According to Weather Spark, the city of Hermitage, PA, enjoys summers with warm temperatures and average humidity.
When you take advantage of the beautiful summer weather, it is important to focus on heat safety in aging as well. Sunny weather means more outdoor protection for seniors.
Are you wondering how to safely enjoy the summer as a senior in Hermitage? Let's look at some essential sun safety facts and summer health tips to consider.
Education is the most effective weapon against sun damage. Here are some of the most important sun safety facts to think about when the weather starts heating up:
According to Advanced Dermatology, a concerning 11% of survey respondents reported never wearing sunscreen, and 61% do not use sun protection even in cloudy weather.
Unfortunately, there is a strong correlation between UV exposure and skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation indicates that Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays can alter the DNA of skin cells, heightening the risk of developing skin cancer.
UVA: These are shorter wavelengths that can cause tanning and sunburns. They penetrate your skin at a deeper level and can cause your skin to age more quickly.
UVB: These wavelengths can damage the outer layers of skin. In addition, UVB can affect your skin year-round, not just in the summer.
Some of the most prevalent skin cancers resulting from UV exposure include:
Continuous UV exposure is cumulative, which means that your risk of skin cancer compounds and increases over time.
The Skin Cancer Foundation states that around 20% of Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. That's millions of seniors who will needlessly suffer.
Among all demographics, white men face the largest risk, particularly those over 55, who are in the highest risk group for melanoma.
Because sun damage accumulates, your risk of skin cancer increases significantly with age. Every time you lie out on the beach without sun protection or forget to put on sunscreen, you add to your risk of permanent damage or skin cancer.
Aging skin also tends to be more fragile and sensitive. Thinner skin means that UVA and UVB rays can penetrate more deeply and cause extensive damage.
For seniors, the skin does not repair itself as efficiently. When the skin can't repair itself properly, there is an enhanced risk of abnormal cell growth and DNA modifications.
Finally, seniors have less collagen and elastin in their skin. These elements are building blocks for supple, healthy skin. When they're reduced, the skin weakens.
Whether you go on a long hike or simply step outside in your independent living community, UV safety for older adults is paramount.
Here are some of the ways you can stay protected as a senior outdoors:
Even if it's cloudy outside, make sure to put on sunscreen before you leave the house. A good everyday sunscreen should be at least 30 SPF.
Some sunscreen formulas are designed specifically for aging skin. If you need more robust coverage, consider investing in a formula tailored for seniors.
A good rule of thumb is to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours. However, you may need to reapply more frequently if you engage in activities such as swimming or watersports.
If you're directly in the sun or there is a higher UV index, opt for a formula with greater SPF and apply liberally.
Cotton and linen clothing are ideal during the summer. These types of fabric are more breathable than options such as polyester.
Even the shade of your clothing can make a difference in how much you feel the heat. Lighter shades, such as white, actually provide more protection against the sun's rays.
For extra protection, wear a hat. A bucket hat or a wide-brimmed sun hat provides more coverage than a baseball hat, but any head covering is better than exposing your scalp to UV rays.
When participating in outdoor activities, try to avoid the time of day when the sun is highest. These hours usually occur in late morning and early afternoon.
Since seniors have a much greater risk of developing skin cancer, stay vigilant of any skin abnormalities.
Here are some symptoms to look for that could signal skin cancer:
If you see any of these symptoms or something feels off, make a doctor's appointment as soon as possible. Early detection is one of the most valuable tools for eliminating skin cancer.
Whenever possible, seek shade to avoid direct sun exposure. You can still reap the benefits of a fun day outdoors without being directly underneath the harmful UV rays.
For outdoor gatherings, bring a:
These structures can not only keep you cool, but they can also provide welcome relief in higher summer temperatures.
Staying active in the summer months does not have to be challenging. By utilizing these sun safety facts, you can enjoy yourself, soak up the sun, and practice heat safety in aging.
At Whispering Oaks, we prioritize Hermitage senior wellness. Our premier senior living community offers all types of events to promote healthy habits year-round.
Are you ready to join a thriving community for seniors in Hermitage? Reach out to us today to learn more or stop by our location for an in-person tour. We're excited to hear from you!