Q. Now that the weather is getting warmer, I am spending more time out in my garden. My daughter keeps telling me I should be careful about being in the sun, but I have spent every spring and summer in my garden for years. Do I really need to start worrying about the sun now?
How wonderful that you have a hobby that you enjoy. Gardening is a great way to get outdoors and stay active. Your daughter raises an important point.
The CDC tells us that most cases of skin cancer are found in people aged 65 and older. They say damage from sunburns and tanning builds up as we age, leading to abnormal activity in skin cells that can turn into cancer.
Avoid peak sun hours: Stay out of the sun or in the shade between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV exposure is most dangerous.
Keep covered: Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.
Wear a hat: A wide-brimmed hat can shade your face, head, ears and neck.
Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses that wrap around and block both UVA and UVB rays.
Apply sunscreen: Use sunscreen and lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
Know your medications: Certain medications can increase sun sensitivity. Check in with your doctor about your sun sensitivity risks.
It’s also a good idea to examine your skin once a month and let your health care provider know about any changes. Taking a few precautions now can help you continue enjoying your time in the garden for many seasons to come. And your daughter will feel better knowing you’re taking steps to protect your health.
Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org.
Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves the following cities and towns: Amesbury, Andover, Billerica, Boxford, Chelmsford, Danvers, Dracut, Dunstable, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Marblehead, Merrimac, Methuen, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Peabody, Rowley, Salisbury, Salem, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Westford, and West Newbury.
First published in the Eagle-Tribune.
