Spring is coming, meaning it’s time to ensure your senior parent is safe from the sun. Even if your mom or dad doesn’t go outside frequently, they still need to be cautious about sun exposure. Seniors are very susceptible to developing skin cancer and experiencing other skin problems caused by the sun.
If your mom or dad doesn’t have a sun skincare routine, or if they find it difficult to put on sunscreen and perform other skincare tasks, they need personal care at home services. When your mom or dad has personal care at home, they get extra support from a care provider who has experience helping seniors with things like showering, washing their face, applying lotion and sunscreen, and helping them get dressed.
With personal care at home, your mom or dad may be able to lower their risk of developing skin cancer or other skin illnesses.
For seniors, sun protection is essential because sun exposure can cause problems like:
Sunburn
Sunburn is one of the most common skin problems caused by too much sun exposure. It happens when the skin is exposed to the sun for too long without protection. Sunburn causes redness, pain, and peeling skin.
In severe cases, blisters can form, and the skin may swell. Sunburn also increases the risk of skin cancer, especially if a person gets sunburned often. Seniors with fair skin or sensitive skin are more likely to burn quickly, so wearing sunscreen and protective clothing is important.
Age Spots
Age spots, also called liver spots, are dark patches that appear on the skin after years of sun exposure. They usually show up in areas that get the most sun, such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms.
Age spots are not harmful, but they can make the skin look older and uneven. Some people choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons, but the best way to prevent them is by wearing sunscreen and avoiding too much sun.
Personal care at home providers can help ensure seniors have the right clothing, have sunscreen properly applied, and don’t stay outside too long.
Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis is a rough, scaly patch on the skin that develops from years of sun exposure. These spots can be red, pink, or brown and often appear on the face, scalp, ears, and backs of the hands.
While actinic keratosis is not cancer, it can turn into skin cancer if left untreated. That’s why it’s important for seniors to check their skin regularly and see a doctor if they notice any new or changing spots.
Skin Cancer
One of the most serious dangers of too much sun exposure is skin cancer. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage skin cells, leading to different types of skin cancer. The three most common types are:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma – A slow-growing cancer that appears as a shiny bump or sore that doesn’t heal.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma – A red, scaly patch or lump that may bleed or crust over.
- Melanoma – The most dangerous type, often appearing as a dark mole that changes in size, shape, or color.
Early detection is key to treating skin cancer, so personal care at home aides, family caregivers, and seniors should check their skin regularly and visit a dermatologist for routine check-ups.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home in Southern Pines, NC, please contact the caring staff at Affordable Family Care.
Serving Raleigh, Greensboro, and the surrounding areas in North Carolina. Call today at (919) 676-1070
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