Did you know that seniors have a higher-than-average risk of developing skin cancer? It’s true. The risk of developing skin cancer increases with age. And because seniors have delicate skin they must take good care of it. Regular visits to the dermatologist and skin cancer screenings are a must for seniors. If your mom or dad is having trouble showering, moisturizing, or taking care of their skin as they get older personal care at home provider can help. Personal care at home makes it easier for seniors to safely maintain good personal hygiene and take better care of their skin, teeth, and hair.
In addition to getting personal care at home some things that your mom or dad can do to help lower their risk of developing skin cancer are:
Use Sunscreen Regularly
The best thing seniors can do for their skin is wear sunscreen daily. Seniors should always get a sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30, but there are sunscreens available with an SPF of 50 or even 100. Even if your mom or dad doesn’t leave the house much or if it’s cloudy outside they should be wearing sunscreen daily.
Make sure that your senior parent is also using a lip balm with a high SPF. Seniors often forget about protecting their lips. It’s very common for seniors to have dry lips and to need high-quality lip balm, so choose one that has a good SPF. Buy several so that your mom or dad can keep one in their pocket, one by their bed, one by their favorite chair, and so on. That way even if they lose one they will have plenty more.
Wear Protective Clothing
Seniors should protect their skin if they’re going outside by wearing light but long clothing. Cover up with long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and wide-brimmed hats. Natural fiber clothes made from cotton or linen will allow for airflow and circulation so that your mom or dad won’t get too warm.
Stay Shady
Seniors who do go outside should stay in the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest. They should also wear a sunhat or sit under a shade umbrella if they’re going outside on the deck or in the yard.
Stay Vigilant with Skin Checks
Seniors should perform regular self-examinations of the skin to look for new or changing moles, spots, or growths. Seniors who have personal care at home can ask their care provider to check for any new moles or growths or to look for any changes to existing moles. Getting a skin cancer screening at least once a year should be a priority.
If your senior parent has had skin cancer in the past they should have a screening twice a year, or whenever their dermatologist recommends they get a screening. Anytime your mom or dad has a chance in their skin or an existing mole changes shape or color they should be seen by a dermatologist.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home in Smithville TN please contact the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (931) 208-1019
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Cookeville, Algood, Baxter, Monterey, Sparta, Smithville, Livingston, Dodson Branch, Gainesboro, Putnam County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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