Five Steps for Better Sun Safety

 

Summer is winding down but UV rays and heat may still pose a danger for seniors.  Below are five precautionary steps seniors can take to improve their safety during the remainder of the warmer temperatures. 

1.       Stay Hydrated: Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water per day. 

By the time you feel thirsty, your body is already dehydrated. 

For seniors, the feeling of thirst decreases with age so be sure 

to increase your water intake with prolonged physical activity.

2.      Use your air conditioning: Some seniors are hesitant 

to turn on their AC because of the increased cost but your 

health is worth it.  During a heat wave, if you don’t have AC, 

spend time at locations with AC like a senior center or          

movie theater.

3.      Be an early bird or night owl: The sun and heat are

 strongest between 10 am and 4 pm.  Limit your outdoor 

activity to early morning and/or late evening when 

temperatures are not as high. 

4.      Know your medications: Many seniors use 

medications daily. Some medications can cause side effects, 

like increased sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Review all 

medications and check with your pharmacist with questions.

5.      Wear sunscreen: Sunscreen helps prevent sunburns. 

Look for a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays, and

has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or greater.

 

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