Sunshine is one of life’s simple pleasures. It brightens our days, lifts our moods, and encourages us to spend more time outdoors. But too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can come with serious risks, especially for older adults.
Staying safe in the sun doesn’t mean staying indoors all summer. It means learning how to protect yourself and your loved ones while enjoying the outdoors.
Understanding the Risk
UV rays are invisible rays that come from the sun and tanning devices. Even on cloudy days, they can reach your skin and eyes. Over time, too much exposure can cause permanent damage. This includes premature skin aging, sunburns, and a higher chance of developing skin cancer. It can also lead to cataracts and other eye conditions.
The risk is not always obvious. UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and they reflect off surfaces like water, pavement, and even grass.
Simple Ways to Stay Safe
Start by checking the UV Index. This daily number helps you know when sun protection is most important. On high UV days, it’s smart to take extra steps:
- Wear long sleeves and pants made of tightly woven fabrics.
- Use a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face, neck, and ears.
- Choose sunglasses that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays.
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and reapply every two hours.
- Stay in the shade when the sun is strongest.
These small steps can help reduce long-term health risks without giving up time outdoors.
Watch for Changes
It is also important to check your skin regularly. If you notice anything new or changing on your skin, talk to a healthcare provider.
For your eyes, schedule regular eye exams. Protecting your vision goes beyond reading glasses. It includes shielding your eyes from UV rays that can cause damage over time.
Care That Covers the Details
Homewatch CareGivers of Idaho knows that sun safety is part of overall well-being. Whether we are helping someone get to a doctor’s appointment, take a walk in the park, or enjoy fresh air from the porch, we always keep UV protection in mind.
Enjoying the sunshine safely is a smart and simple way to support lifelong health. A few extra steps today can help protect your skin and eyes for years to come.
Homewatch Websites:
Boise: www.homewatchcaregivers.com/boise
Twin Falls: www.homewatchcaregivers.com/twinfalls
Nampa: www.homewatchcaregovers.com/nampa
Pocatello: www.homewatchcaregivers.com/pocatello
We serve the following cities:
Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Star, Nampa, Caldwell, Kuna, Mountain Home, Middleton, Parma, Homedale, Twin Falls, Jerome, Buhl, Kimberly, Filer, Wendell, Gooding, Pocatello, Burley, Chubbuck, American Falls, and Blackfoot.