The Importance of Sunshine for Seniors and How to Enjoy It Safely

By Blen Abraham | August 7, 2024

Senior home care helps seniors safely get the sunshine they need.

Sunshine provides numerous health advantages, especially for seniors. Sunlight exposure can enhance mood, increase vitamin D levels, and promote general well-being. However, taking precautions while enjoying the sunshine is important to minimize hazards. The good news is that senior home care providers can encourage seniors to take advantage of sunny days and remind them of the precautions they should take.

Sunlight, Seniors, and Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, as the body needs it to better absorb calcium, which lowers the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. For this reason, spending time in the sun can be especially useful for seniors. Knowing their vitamin D level, which can be achieved through bloodwork, is also key, as seniors’ levels tend to decrease with age.

Sunlight and Moods

Sunshine can lift one’s spirits and reduce depressive symptoms. This is significant for many seniors who may struggle with feelings of sadness. Additionally, the body’s internal clock is regulated by exposure to natural light, which can enhance sleep quality and reduce anxiety.

Sunlight and Cognitive Performance

Research indicates that exposure to sunlight may have a beneficial impact on memory and cognitive performance. With age, it’s critical to maintain brain clarity and general cognitive health. Understanding this, both loved ones and senior home care can encourage seniors to spend more time in the sun.

Tips for Safely Enjoying the Sun

Seniors should try to enjoy the sun in the early morning or late afternoon when the strength of the UV radiation is lower. This also reduces the chance of further skin damage, whether that be sunburn or other damage. Senior home care can remind seniors to stay indoors between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Other tips senior home care offers for safely enjoying the sun include the following:

Use Sunscreen

Seniors should cover all exposed skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. It should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if they’re sweating or swimming. Sunscreen lowers the risk of skin cancer and helps protect against damaging UV radiation. It might be easier for seniors to use a spray sunscreen or get assistance from loved ones and senior home care providers to ensure no spots are missed.

Wear Protective Clothes

Seniors might opt for lightweight long-sleeve shirts or hats with wide brims to protect their skin from direct sunlight. Also, sunglasses with UV protection can help shield their eyes from damaging light.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking lots of water is critical to staying hydrated, particularly in hot weather. Maintaining adequate hydration helps control body temperature and guard against heat-related issues.

Track Skin Changes

Senior home care professionals can help seniors watch for any changes or strange patches on their skin. If anything is noticed, they should see a healthcare professional. The management of skin disorders depends on early identification.

Limit Exposure

Other than staying indoors between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., seniors should also take breaks from the sun by relaxing in covered areas. This ensures they avoid overexposure.

Seniors can enjoy the benefits of sunlight while preserving their health by hiring senior home care services and paying attention to the tips above.

If you or an aging loved one is considering Senior Home Care in Annandale, VA, please contact the caring staff at Thrive Health Care Services today. (703) 992-0484

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