SUMMER SKIN CARE FOR SENIORS

Summer skin care is an important step we can all take to lower our risk of developing skin cancer. However, because the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis) gets thinner over time, that means we become more at risk of sunburn as we age. That’s another reason why it’s so important for seniors to protect their skin from the sun. In this article, we’ll go over our top tips for doing just that!

• Stay hydrated. Water is key, especially in the hot summer months. If you have no fluid intake restrictions, drink lots and lots of water. This will keep all your bodily systems working well, reduce fatigue, and keep your skin hydrated.

• Use sunscreen. Maybe it seems obvious at the beach or a pool day, but so many of us forget sunscreen on a day-to-day basis. Any time you go outside, you’re being exposed to the sun, so invest in a face lotion with added SPF protection to wear in the mornings. Don’t forget lip balm with SPF too. Even when you’re at the beach, you may overlook forgotten areas like your feet or the backs of your ears or neck. Apply sunscreen in the mirror and make sure you’re not forgetting any spots. https://www.webmd.com/parkinsons-disease/guide/ living-with-parkinsons-disease-tips

• Protect your vulnerable areas. While sunscreen can go a long way in protecting your skin, don’t forget to protect vulnerable areas like your eyes or the top of your head with sunglasses and a good hat.

• Avoid the hottest hours. An easy way to protect yourself from the worst of the sun is just to stay inside when it’s the hottest. You can plan your gardening, errands, or walks in the early morning or late evening when you’ll be safer.

• Read medication labels. Some medications can leave your skin extra sensitive to UV rays. Make sure you read the fine print on all your medications for this and other side effects. If a medication you’re taking leaves you more exposed to UV rays, this means you’ll need to be even more vigilant at protecting yourself from the sun.

If your body overheats because you’ve been out in the heat for too long or overexerted yourself in the heat, this is called a heatstroke. Heatstrokes are incredibly dangerous, especially for seniors and young children, and requires emergency treatment. If not treated quickly, your brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles can all be damaged, and you could even die. In this article, we’ll go over the signs of a heat stroke, ways you can prevent a heat stroke from happening to you or a loved one, and what to do if a heatstroke happens.

Signs of a Heatstroke

• Body temperature of 104 F or

Higher

• Altered mental state or behavior, like confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, delirium, seizures, and comas

• Nausea and vomiting

• Flushed skin

• Rapid breathing

• Racing heart rate

• Headache

Treating a Heatstroke

If someone is experiencing a heatstroke, they need medical help as soon as possible. The first thing you should do is call 911. While you are waiting for the ambulance to arrive, you can get the person indoors, remove any excess clothing, and cool the person off. You can cool them off with water, ice packs, or cold, wet towels.

Preventing a Heatstroke

While a heatstroke is very scary and considered a medical emergency, there are many steps you can take to prevent it. These include: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heatstroke/symptoms-causes/syc-20353581

• Wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that allows your body to cool properly.

• Using sunscreen generously and wearing a hat and sunglasses.

• Staying hydrated with water, not sugary drinks.

• Knowing if your medications affect your ability to stay hydrated or stay cool.

• Avoid being outside in the hottest parts of the day.

• Don’t work or exercise outside unless you’re used to it.