Sun Safety for Everyone

Author

Brightstar Care of MSC

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Brightstar Care

Posted on

Aug 01, 2023

share-this
Share This

Stay Sun-Safe with These Sun Safety Tips 

Summer is in full swing and with it comes the long-awaited sunshine. While the sun can provide many benefits, it can also be detrimental to our health if we do not take care to protect ourselves.  

Whether you're spending time outdoors on a sunny day, going for a walk or just sitting on the porch, protecting yourself from harmful rays should always be a top priority. In this blog post, we will share tips and tricks on how to keep safe in the sun. 

Facts and Stats About Skin Cancer  

Staying ahead of skin cancer means staying informed about its causes, risks, and outcomes. The Skin Cancer Foundation(Opens in a new window) shares the following staggering facts and stats about skin cancer in the United States:  

1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. 

Every hour, more than 2 people die of skin cancer in the U.S. 

Your risk for melanoma doubles after experiencing five or more sunburns. 

Early detection of melanoma leads to a 99% 5-year survival rate. 

Risks of Skin Cancer and Who is Most at Risk 

Although anyone can develop skin cancer, some people are more at risk than others. According to the American Cancer Society(Opens in a new window), those with fair skin, light hair, and blue or green eyes are more likely to get skin cancer, as are those with a personal or family history of skin cancer. Additionally, exposure to UV rays from the sun or tanning beds can greatly increase your risk. And while skin cancer can happen at any age, it's more common in people over the age of 50, says the Skin Cancer Foundation(Opens in a new window).  

Tips for Staying Safe in the Sun 

We all want to make sure that we’re taking the best possible care of ourselves and our loved ones, especially when it comes to protecting ourselves from the dangers of spending too much time in the sun. Overexposure can lead to serious health risks such as dehydration, sunburns, heat exhaustion – even skin cancer – so it’s imperative for us to be aware of sun protection methods during outdoor activities. Here are some sun safety tips to bear in mind when spending time outside: 

Apply sunscreen regularly: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF of 30 or higher) that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. To ensure that sunscreen is evenly applied, use about an oz (a shot glass) worth of sunscreen or enough to fit in the palm of your hand. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. 

Wear appropriate clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that covers as much skin as possible, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants. Consider sun protective clothing with UV blocking fabric. 

Seek shade: Stay under the shade as much as possible and always use an umbrella, tent, or other porous objects to provide shade. Again, avoid being in the midday sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when UV rays are the strongest. 

Wear a hat: Wearing a wide-brimmed hat is a great way to protect your face, ears, and neck from the sun. 

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water – being in the sun can be dehydrating. 

Don’t be fooled by cloudy weather: UV radiation can still damage your skin, even on a cloudy day. It is important always to apply sunscreen when going outside for an extended period. 

Tips for Preventing Skin Cancer 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(Opens in a new window), skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. and it affects millions of people every year. It is caused by damage to the skin cells caused by the sun's harmful UV rays. CDC research show that certain people carry risk factors that make them more susceptible to skin cancer(Opens in a new window). Whether you have risk factors for cancer or not, there are plenty of ways to protect your skin from the sun and prevent skin cancer: 

Monitor your medications: Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. If you are taking any prescription drugs, talk to your doctor, or pharmacist, about the potential side effects and how to protect your skin. 

Live a healthy lifestyle: Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress can all have a positive effect on your skin. By living a healthy lifestyle, you can give your skin the best chance of staying healthy and avoiding skin cancer. 

Avoid Tanning Beds: If you're looking to get a tan, skip the tanning bed and opt for a self-tanner instead. Tanning beds expose your skin to harmful UV rays, increasing your risk of skin cancer. 

Get Regular Skin Checks: Schedule regular appointments with a dermatologist to have your skin checked for any signs of skin cancer. Catching it early can greatly improve your chances of successful treatment. 

Protect. Protect. Protect: As mentioned above, some of the most proactive steps you can take to protect yourself from skin cancer is to seek the shade; avoid the sun’s UV rays when they are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm; wear sun protective clothing; and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.  

Enlist Help from a Professional Care Team 

It's important to take extra precautions to protect your family from the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure. But we understand that sun safety can be a challenge, especially with those who have special needs or those who require additional care. That's where BrightStar Care comes in. Our team of qualified caregivers can provide child care services(Opens in a new window) or special needs care(Opens in a new window) to help keep your family healthy and safe this summer. Contact us today(Opens in a new window) to learn more about how BrightStar Care can help! 

Other Articles You May Like

Will Selling Their Home Cost You a Client?

Every independent living, assisted living, and memory care community has experienced it.A prospective resident and their family tour your community. They love the apartment. They are emotionally ready to make the move.Then comes the sentence that changes everything:"We have to sell the house first."Suddenly, what seemed like a straightforward move becomes filled with uncertainty.How long will it take to sell?How much will they actually receive?Will the buyer's financing fall through?Will repairs be required?Will inspections uncover expensive issues?Will the move be delayed for months?Unfortunately, these unknowns often result in families postponing their decision. Some decide to "wait until next year." Others choose another community with different availability. Sometimes a health event forces an emergency move that could have been avoided with better planning.In many cases, everyone loses.The family experiences unnecessary stress.The senior delays the next chapter of their life.And your community may lose a future resident.The Home Is Often the Biggest ObstacleFor many seniors, the home represents decades of memoriesbut it is also the largest financial asset they own.Many families simply cannot commit to a move until they know:When the home will sellHow much they will receiveWhether repairs will be necessaryWhen they will have access to the proceedsWithout those answers, planning becomes difficult.That's where we help.Did You Know?Many prospective residents delay moving into an independent living or assisted living community simply because they are uncertain about selling their home.In many cases, one conversation with an experienced real estate professional can eliminate that uncertainty and give families the confidence to move forward.One call gives families two professional options:A fast, guaranteed cash offer through Sarasota Cash Home BuyersA traditional MLS listing through Jeff Nemeth Real EstateThere is no obligation and no pressure - just honest guidance to help families choose the solution that best fits their goals, timeline, and financial needs.One Contact. Two Professional Solutions.Unlike most companies, we can provide both of the primary options available to homeowners.Our goal isn't to convince someone to choose one path over the other.Our goal is to help families choose the solution that best fits their situation.Solution One: Sarasota Cash Home BuyersSome families need certainty.Perhaps Mom needs to move within a few weeks.Perhaps Dad has already moved into assisted living.Perhaps the family lives out of state.Perhaps the home needs extensive repairs.Perhaps maintaining the property has become overwhelming.A direct cash purchase often removes nearly every obstacle.Benefits include:Sell completely as-isNo repairsNo cleaningNo paintingNo stagingNo open housesNo repeated showingsNo financing contingenciesNo appraisal concernsNo commissionsNo waiting for a buyer to qualify for financingChoose the closing date that works with the move-in scheduleGreater certainty throughout the entire processInstead of wondering whether the house will sell, families know exactly when the transaction will close.That certainty often makes scheduling a move into your community much easier.Solution Two: Jeff Nemeth Real EstateSometimes, selling through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is the better option.Every family's goals are different.If maximizing the sale price is the highest priority and the family has flexibility with timing, a traditional listing may produce the best overall outcome.With nearly two decades as a licensed Realtor and hundreds of successful real estate transactions, Jeff Nemeth helps families understand the advantages and trade-offs of listing their home traditionally.Our philosophy is simple:Recommend what's best for the clientnot what's best for us.That means families receive honest advice about both options before making any decisions.Why This Matters to Senior Living CommunitiesWhen a family delays selling a home, the move into your community is often delayed as well.Those delays can affect:OccupancyMove-in timelinesApartment availabilitySales forecastingFamily confidenceResident planningHaving a trusted housing resource available early in the conversation can eliminate many of these roadblocks before they become major problems.Even if a family ultimately chooses to list the property rather than accept a cash offer, they now have a clear roadmap and realistic expectations.Knowledge reduces uncertainty.And reduced uncertainty helps families move forward.We Become Part of Your TeamWe regularly work alongside:Independent Living communitiesAssisted Living communitiesMemory Care communitiesContinuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)Senior placement agenciesSenior move managersEstate planning attorneysElder law attorneysProbate attorneysTrust officersFinancial advisorsGuardiansHome health agenciesHospice providersProfessional organizersSenior relocation companiesOur role is simple:Help families solve the housing piece of the transition.When that obstacle is removed, everyone benefits.One Contact. Two Solutions.Sarasota Cash Home BuyersJeff Nemeth Real EstateImmediate cash offerTraditional MLS listingSell completely as-isProfessional marketingNo repairsMaximum market exposureNo showingsBuyer competitionNo financing contingenciesGuidance throughout the selling processFlexible closing dateMarket-based pricing strategyFast, predictable closingIdeal for families with more flexibilityThere is no "one-size-fits-all" solution.Every family deserves to understand both options before making one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.Why Families Appreciate Working With UsFamilies often tell us that what they value most isn't simply buying or selling a home.It's having someone who explains every option without pressure.We believe education comes before transactions.Sometimes the best recommendation is a cash sale.Sometimes it's listing on the open market.Sometimes it's waiting.Our responsibility is to help families make an informed decision based on their financial goals, timeline, and personal circumstances.Helping Seniors Move ForwardMoving into a senior living community is a major life transition.The process should feel supportednot overwhelming.If one of your prospective residents needs to sell a home before they can move, we'd be happy to provide a complimentary consultation, explain every available option, and help the family determine the best path forward.There is no obligation.No high-pressure sales presentation.Just experienced guidance from professionals who understand both the real estate market and the unique challenges families face during senior transitions.One conversation today could be the difference between a delayed move and a successful move-in.At Sarasota Cash Home Buyers and Jeff Nemeth Real Estate, we're committed to helping seniors, their families, and senior living professionals remove one of the biggest obstacles to a successful transition - selling the home with confidence.Together, we can help more seniors move forward with certainty.Contact Jeff Nemeth at 941-202-6957 for more information.    

When to Pay Attention to Hip Pain

Living with hip pain can be frustrating, limiting your movement and affecting your overall quality of life. If hip discomfort is interfering with your daily activities, your primary care provider can help determine the cause and guide you toward the right treatment.Signs Your Hips Need AttentionSymptoms of hip deterioration that patients might first notice are a loss of motion, such as bending over to tie shoes. Another indication of hip injury is a sharp pain in the groin area. The first step to healing is scheduling a thorough exam with an orthopedic specialist specializing in hip repair.You don't have to be older to experience hip or joint pain. These issues can affect anyone, including active adults and athletes. At AdventHealth, our expert specialists use physical exams and diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, to better understand the cause of your discomfort and recommend the treatment options that best fit your unique needs and lifestyle.Will I Need Surgery, or Are Other Treatments Available?Only your doctor can determine if surgery is a good option for you, and they might offer other treatments to alleviate pain, such as cortisone injections. Its important to note that hip replacement surgery is completely your choice. Some treatments dont require surgery, like anti-inflammatory medications.Depending on the severity of your condition, there may be lifestyle changes you can incorporate to alleviate your pain, such as a weight-loss program or low-impact exercises.Another option for some patients is physical therapy. Sometimes, our muscles and joints get unaligned, and it takes the help of a trusted physical therapist to help you walk pain-free. They may also recommend heat therapy, which increases blood flow to the applied area and improves flexibility.Who Needs Hip Replacement Surgery?The good news about hip replacement surgery is that its very common. There are roughly 350,000 hip replacements in the U.S. every year. Patients are often good candidates for hip replacement surgery if they have:Benign tumorsContinued chronic pain even while sitting or asleepExhausted all other forms of treatmentHip dysplasiaMaintained an active lifestyleRheumatoid arthritisTotal hip replacement surgery does come with some risks and should be taken into consideration. Hip replacement is better tolerated than other joint replacements, and they can last a lifetime with appropriate care. Its important that you speak with your doctor to know if surgery is the best option for you.What Should I Expect Before and After Surgery?Your care team will start by performing a physical exam, including some tests before your surgery. They note all your symptoms and check your pain level and range of motion.Once your medical team recommends surgery as an effective option for treating your chronic hip pain, your primary care provider or orthopedic specialist will work with you to ensure that hip replacement surgery is safe.The surgery typically lasts one to two hours, with an additional two hours for prep and recovery in the operating room. During hip surgery, doctors may use the direct anterior approach, which is muscle-sparing with smaller incisions, ultimately leading to a faster and easier recovery. This surgery can be life-changing for patients who have lost mobility to injury or arthritis.Hip surgeries are typically outpatient procedures, allowing you to go home that same day. In some cases, you may need to stay overnight for your care team to examine the results.Hip replacement surgery is extremely effective at restoring your mobility and helping you get back to the life you love. Trust our leading orthopedic experts at AdventHealth to be there for you with a compassionate spirit and pioneering surgery options dedicated to getting you back on your feet.Will I Need Physical Therapy After Surgery?Physical therapy after surgery is essential to recovery. In just four to eight weeks, with physical therapy, you can be back on your feet with considerably less pain. The normal healing process takes about 16 to 20 weeks, as soft tissue takes longer to heal. As for scarring, the incision is only as big as it needs to be. Special care and concern are taken to minimize scarring related to the procedure.Live Pain-Free AgainOur hip replacement surgery experts are here to help you get moving through life comfortably again. To learn more about our orthopedic care services or to schedule an appointment today, visit AdventHealthPortCharlotte.com.  

Understanding the Different Types of ERs

At times, it can feel easy to navigate our physical health. But sometimes, we can feel like we don't know where to turn. Whether youve been injured while seeking adventure or experienced an illness with severe symptoms, youve likely wondered where you should go. Knowing where to seek emergency medical attention can make all the difference in getting proper care.Did you know that there are different types of ERs? Onsite ERs are those connected to a hospital. Offsite, or freestanding ERs, stand independently and operate from an isolated location.While both ERs provide emergency care, there are some differences between them. Keep reading to learn the differences and benefits. While we hope youll never have to go to the ER, its good to be prepared should the need arise.What is an Onsite ER?An onsite ER, or a hospital-based ER, is an emergency room department staffed by medical professionals trained to care for life-threatening conditions. These ERs are physically connected to a hospital location and offer leading-edge technologies and treatments. If you have an emergency requiring surgery or extensive intervention, full-service, onsite emergency rooms are where you should go.Onsite emergency rooms offer access to specialists and advanced imaging, like MRIs, and can provide the expertise and support required to treat patients at high and ICU levels of care.Onsite ERs are also more traditional and widely known, and many patients tend to visit their local onsite ER for most emergencies. However, know that our hospital-based ERs follow a prioritization process with our patients known as triage. This process prioritizes patients who face life-threatening or critical conditions. Sometimes, patients who arrive after you in the ER may get treatment before you to ensure they get the immediate, specialized care they need.What Is an Offsite or Freestanding ER?When you think of an emergency room, you might immediately picture a hospital. However, our freestanding ERs, also referred to as mini ERs, are structurally separate from our hospitals as standalone buildings. Theyre designed to offer the same expert care as our hospital-based emergency rooms, but with added benefits like pediatric emergency care, locations closer to home, convenient parking and shorter wait times. When the unexpected happens, our freestanding ERs are ready to serve you and your family at a moments notice.Although our freestanding emergency rooms arent physically connected to our hospitals, theyre connected to our AdventHealth network. Their services and care are billed at hospital emergency department rates. Be comforted knowing youll receive the same high-quality care you need.Benefits of Freestanding ERsWe understand that seamless and coordinated care matters in an emergency. Thats why each of our facilities is equipped with state-of-the-art [HT1] technology to give our patients quick and accurate treatment and answers on their paths to recovery. Our freestanding ERs enhance our ability to provide lifesaving care quickly and efficiently by aspiring to provide shorter wait times than traditional ERs in a hospital setting. This allows us to meet the growing health care needs of our communities.Our freestanding emergency rooms are open 24/7 and are staffed with expert teams of emergency physicians and highly trained providers who compassionately and effectively treat your medical needs. Were delighted to have board-certified ER physicians, critical care nurses, chest pain experts and stroke specialists staffed at our facilities to meet your needs while keeping your whole health in mind.When you need emergency care for your little ones, you can trust theyll be in great hands with us. Each of our freestanding ERs is backed by the nationally recognized AdventHealth for Children. We take the extra steps to ease the stress of an ER visit and ease your mind as a parent or guardian. We offer dedicated pediatric rooms designed to be extra comforting for kids.Your Ever-Present Health PartnerWe know you may feel shaken and uncertain when an emergency arises, but were here to provide solid support. Our state-of-the-art onsite and freestanding emergency rooms provide comprehensive and accurate results, giving you access to advanced care in a safe environment with the compassionate approach you deserve.To learn more about our emergency room care, or find a location near you, visit TheERExperts.com. 

Local Services By This Author

BrightStar Care of Osprey / Nokomis / Palmer Ranch

Non-Medical 674 South Tamiami Trail, Nokomis, Florida, 34275

BrightStar Care of Osprey / Nokomis / Palmer Ranch is dedicated to providing the best in-home care for you or a loved one. We are a Nurse Owned and Family Operated Private Duty Home Care Agency offering Companion Services (meal prep, transportation, light housekeeping), Personal Care (bathing, dressing, transfers), and Skilled Care (assessments, medication management, med box fills). We also provide Medical Staffing. BrightStar Care is Joint Commission Accredited and Awarded Leader in Excellence, Provider of Choice and Employer of Choice 2016 - 2020 by Home Care Pulse. All caregivers are background checked, drug tested, bonded and insured. We are available 24/7...Just a phone call away!

BrightStar Care of Venice

Non-Medical 425 Commercial Court, Venice, Florida, 34292

Dedicated In-Home Care by BrightStar Care of Venice and Port CharlotteBrightStar Care of Venice and Port Charlotte is dedicated to providing the best in-home care for you or a loved one. We are a Nurse Owned and Family Operated Private Duty Home Care Agency, offering a range of services to meet your needs:Companion Services: Meal preparation, transportation, light housekeepingPersonal Care: Bathing, dressing, transfersSkilled Care: Assessments, medication management, med box fillsMedical Staffing: Providing professional healthcare staff for various needsBrightStar Care is Joint Commission Accredited and has been recognized as a Leader in Excellence, Provider of Choice, and Employer of Choice from 2016 to 2020 by Home Care Pulse. All our caregivers are background checked, drug tested, bonded, and insured.We are available 24/7 and just a phone call away, ready to provide reliable and compassionate care whenever you need it.

BrightStar Care of Port Charlotte

Non-Medical 1777 South Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, Florida, 33948

BrightStar Home Care's commitment to providing high-quality, person-centered care shines through their dedication to improving the lives of individuals in need. Their focus on delivering a higher standard of care ensures that each client receives the personalized support they deserve, tailored to their unique needs and preferences.The recognition BrightStar Home Care Port Charlotte has received, including Joint Commission accreditation, speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence and adherence to rigorous healthcare quality standards. Achieving and maintaining this accreditation demonstrates their dedication to ensuring the highest level of care and safety for their clients.By adhering to BrightStar Care policies and procedures, state licensure requirements, and Joint Commission standards, they provide peace of mind to clients and their families, knowing that their loved ones are receiving care of the highest caliber.Furthermore, BrightStar Home Care's emphasis on clinical quality not only ensures the safety and well-being of clients but also plays a crucial role in preventing hospital readmissions. This proactive approach to care underscores their commitment to promoting positive health outcomes and enhancing the overall quality of life for those they serve.Overall, BrightStar Home Care's dedication to excellence, person-centered care, and clinical quality sets a commendable standard in the home care industry, providing invaluable support and peace of mind to individuals and families during challenging times.