Reducing the Risk of Skin Cancer in Seniors

Vancouver Senior Health  |  August 29, 2019

What Every Senior in Vancouver, BC, Needs to Know About Skin Cancer

Risk of Skin Cancer | During the summer, most seniors enjoy spending time outside and engaging in activities they love. However, it is essential to stay protected from harmful UV rays when outdoors since skin cancer is the most common cancer. One in every three cancers diagnosed across the globe is skin cancer.

Know the Risk of Skin Cancer

Staying protected from sunburn is even more important in golden years than at any other age. Skin cancer is a result of a series of sun damage events that occur throughout the years. Since older adults have been more exposed to sun damage than younger generations they should make their safety a priority.

Although they last only a few days, sunburns have the potential to contribute to future skin cancer. When you take into consideration that retired seniors spend a lot of time outdoors and that they have more sensitive skin, it’s easy to see why skin cancer may be a concern for older adults.

However, there are some ways older adults can continue to enjoy the sunshine without worry.

Five Tips for Seniors Who Love to Safely Enjoy the Sun!

Tip #1. Staying inside during the hottest time of the day:

Since the sun’s rays are the most intense from 10 am to 4 pm, seniors should avoid going outside during these six hours. Also, seniors who easily dehydrate should plan outdoor activities for the morning or evening.

Tip #2. Having the appropriate cover:

Staying in the shade at all times during the day can often be impossible, so it is important to wear a hat or parasol which can provide some protection. Seniors should also consider wearing long-sleeve shirts, long pants, and sunglasses when they are outside.

Tip #3. Remember to use sunblock:

Seniors who will be spending a lot of time outdoors should always remember to use sunscreen that is at least SPF 30. It should be applied 20 minutes before leaving the house and reapplied every two hours.

Tip #4. Practicing medication safety:

Some medications have side effects that involve increased sun sensitivity, so seniors should consult with their health providers before participating in outdoor activities.

Tip #5. Knowing the signs of skin cancer:

Early skin cancer detection can often be a lifesaver. Therefore, older adults should conduct an annual skin cancer assessment.

The Best Senior Home Care Provider in Vancouver, BC, is Comfort Keepers®

Many families prefer Comfort Keepers® when arranging senior home care services for a loved one in or around Vancouver, British Columbia. 

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones, we can help with 24-hour care. Comfort Keepers Vancouver also provides home care services like respite care, overnight care, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care, personal care, and more! 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver Can Help with Companion Care and Interactive Caregiving™

Personal and empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our clients’ needs. Comfort Keeper’s philosophy is to elevate the human spirit, and our caregivers ensure your loved one experiences a better quality of life.

Trained caregivers help provide our senior clients with personal home care to help maintain the highest possible quality of life, keeping them happy and healthy at home. Our Interactive Caregiving™ delivers a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Bring The Best Home Care Assistance for Seniors Right Where You Live with Comfort Keepers®

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver is proud to provide elder care in homes throughout Vancouver, keeping seniors safe in their homes. We provide home care for the seniors of Vancouver and the surrounding areas of Burnaby, Langley, Maple Ridge, and Richmond. Please call (604) 689-8609. 

Personal Care and Senior Homecare in Vancouver, BC

Learn more about our unique service, which offers personal care, companionship care, palliative care, and end-of-life care by contacting the Comfort Keepers® Vancouver office.

Accredited and Quality Respite Care Available 24/7 for British Columbia Families

Accreditation Canada has awarded Comfort Keepers® Vancouver with Exemplary Standing. This designation is only achieved after an organization’s policies, procedures, and processes undergo a thorough evaluation by industry experts to ensure they meet or exceed the stringent quality standards set by Accreditation Canada for Home Care companies.

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