The first day of May is often a time when people in every state are starting to see sunny, warm weather. People get back outside after dreary winter weather and a slow, or sometimes quick, start to spring. Gardening, yard work, and time spent on the patio or deck are favorite pastimes.
Your dad may spend too much time in the sun as he spends time outside in his garden, patio, or deck, which increases the risk of skin cancer. Melanoma Monday is a day for raising awareness of the risk of skin cancer and the importance of protecting your skin from the sun.
Apply Sunscreen Every Two Hours
Your dad needs to apply sunscreen every two hours. When choosing a sunscreen, he needs one that is a broad-spectrum product that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. An SPF of 35 or higher is ideal.
When he sweats or comes out of the water, he needs to reapply the sunscreen, even if it hasn’t been two hours. Make sure he applies sunscreen to his eyelids, the bridge of the nose, ears, the tops of the feet, and the back of the neck.
Invest in Sunscreen Clothing
Some people hate the feel of sunscreen. If your dad is like that, he still needs to protect his skin. He cannot just go without and hope for the best.
Several clothing brands make sunscreen clothing that offers an SPF of 50 or higher. The clothing is lightweight and airy, but it provides the sun protection he needs.
Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat
Your dad has to protect his face from the sun, and a wide-brimmed hat is good for that. Have him pick his favorite style and measure his head to ensure you get the right size.
Use Sunglasses
Finally, make sure your dad has sunglasses that protect his eyes from UVA and UVB rays. The larger the lenses, the more protection he has for his eyes and eyelids. Purchase a few pairs so that he can keep one pair in the car and have a couple of pairs inside the home.
Sit in the Shade
As much as your dad can, have him sit in the shade. A patio umbrella is helpful. A shade tree is also helpful in blocking the sun and providing a shady spot to sit and read or relax.
When your dad has companion care at home, he has a caregiver to keep him company, help him keep his home clean and organized, and assist him with meals. He has a caregiver to take him shopping, help him run errands, and join him on walks outside in the sun.
Companion care at home helps your dad maintain his independence without struggling with the harder daily tasks. Talk to an advisor to learn more about companion care services.
If you or an aging loved one is considering companion care at home in St. Paul, MN, and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.
