Seniors are more likely to end up with burns or rashes from sun exposure because of the way that skin ages. But more than 13% don’t wear sun protection and more than 20% end up with mild to severe sunburn. Seniors who have personal care services also will have someone to remind them to wear sun protection like a hat with a brim, sunglasses, and light clothing with long sleeves that will protect their arms.
Wearing sun protection is the best way for seniors to prevent sunburn. If your senior parent is staying inside or only going outside on the patio they need to wear sun protection. If your mom or dad has trouble remembering to wear sunscreen and they have personal care the provider can make sure they put on sunscreen each day.
If your senior parent does end up getting sunburn or a rash from the sun they may be uncomfortable or in pain. If the sunburn is painful or looks severe they should see a doctor.
To provide relief from sunburn or sun rashes your senior parent can try:
Cool Compresses
Applying cool, damp cloths to the sunburned area can help reduce heat and pain. Do this for 10-15 minutes several times a day, or have a care provider do it if your mom or dad has personal care services. Keep some damp towels or washcloths in the fridge to keep them cool and switch them out as they get warm.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the sunburned skin to help reduce redness and discomfort. Aloe vera gel can be found easily at any drugstore. Keep it in the fridge so that it’s cold and soothing when applied to warm skin.
Hydration
Sunburn can lead to dehydration. Seniors tend to become dehydrated quickly in warm weather. Your mom or dad should be drinking at least one glass of cool water every hour during the day. If they are showing signs of dehydration they may need to drink more water.
Moisturize
Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. This can prevent peeling and promote healing. Look for products with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides. Baby lotions are a great option because they are formulated to be gentle on delicate skin. Diaper cream can also help soothe any itching or redness if your mom or dad develops a rash from the sun.
Avoid Further Sun Exposure
Keep the affected area out of the sun to prevent further damage. Wearing loose, protective clothing and staying indoors as much as possible can help. Make sure that your senior parent stays indoors with the air conditioning on. If the sun is particularly hot or bright try drawing the blinds or closing the curtains to minimize UVA and UVB exposure.
Oatmeal Baths
Adding colloidal oatmeal to a cool bath can provide relief from itching and irritation. This is especially helpful for widespread sunburn. A cooling oatmeal bath is excellent for the skin and it can help your senior mom or dad cool down after a hot day. A cool oatmeal bath before bed can help your mom or dad sleep on hot summer nights.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/research/many-older-adults-dont-protect-their-skin-from-the-sun.html
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care Services in Bucyrus OH, please get in touch with the caring staff at Central Star Home Health today. Call 419-756-9449
Central Star Home Health is a Trusted Home Care Agency in Ohio including Ashland, Bellville, Bucyrus, Crestline, Galion, Lexington, Mansfield, Marion, Mt. Vernon, Ontario, Shelby, and Willard.
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