Sun Protection

Did you know most skin cancers are preventable? Even though skin becomes thinner and slower to repair damage as you age, there are still steps you can take to protect it from damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Apply broad spectrum sunscreen

The easiest and best way to protect your skin from harmful UV rays is to apply a sunscreen rated SPF 30 or higher every morning, whether you intend to go outside or not. If you plan to go outside for a walk or to run errands, apply the sunscreen again 30 minutes ahead of time. Don’t make the mistake of thinking one application of sunscreen in the morning is enough for a whole day. To gain the most protection from your sunscreen, you’ll need to reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.

There are different sunscreens for different occasions. Some are water-resistant, and others are formulated for people with sensitive skin. Sunscreens can be made from chemical substances or minerals. Always follow the directions on the label and be sure to check the expiration date to make sure it’s current.

Wear sun protection (SPF) clothing

There are times you may not be able to use sunscreen, such as when you’re in a hot environment where you’ll be sweating too much for it to work well. In these cases, it’s helpful to wear UV or sun protective (SPF) clothing. Technological advances have allowed protective clothing to be created with specific SPF measurements. 

If you don’t have any SPF clothing, wear light-colored outfits that cover as much skin as possible. Protect your head and neck with a wide-brimmed hat. Sunglasses are also important to protect your eyes from harmful sunlight. If possible, use wraparound sunglasses rated for SPF protection. If you’re working in the yard, wear gloves to protect your wrists and hands.

Stay cool

Seniors don’t always adjust to high temperatures as easily as they did when they were younger. It’s important to stay cool and find shade whenever possible. Not only does this offer sun protection, but also against the heat. The best hours to stay indoors are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. That is when the sun is its hottest and brightest, exposing you to the most harmful UV rays. A large umbrella may be helpful to cover yourself from UV rays if your yard doesn’t have enough shade.

Check your medication for photosensitivity side effects

Did you know certain medications can make your skin more sensitive to the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays? This is called photosensitivity, and it can be caused by topical medications, drugs to treat irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure, and even some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It’s important to read the information about potential side effects supplied by the pharmacy. You can also ask your pharmacist or health care provider about potential photosensitivity.

In cases of photosensitivity, you should limit your outdoors activities to those times when the sun isn’t as intense.

Develop healthy habits

Along with normal aging, there are other things that interfere with the body’s natural protection from the sun. Two of these are smoking and being exposed to high amounts of pollution. 

There are things you can do to keep your skin looking its best and continue to support healthy habits, including getting enough sleep, avoiding toxins, eating a well-balanced diet, managing your stress levels, and drinking enough water. If you smoke, consider getting help from a smoking cessation program. For those who live in areas of high pollution, pay attention to health warnings and stay indoors when the pollution is too high.

It's also a good idea to check your skin on a regular basis, paying attention to moles or patches. You know your skin best. If you see anything that looks unusual, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist for a professional opinion. Early detection saves lives. 

Use your Medicare OTC benefit if you have one

If your Medicare plan comes with an over-the-counter benefit, like Sentara Medicare’s Dual Eligible Special Needs plan (DSNP) does, you can use that to purchase sunscreen. You may get a sunburn no matter how careful you’ve been. Your OTC benefit will most likely cover sunburn treatments, like topical products made with aloe vera or hydrocortisone. Also, Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are typically covered by the OTC benefit, so it’s a good idea to keep them stocked. 

If you have a sunburn and experience extreme pain, a high fever, or dehydration, don’t wait to seek medical attention.

Get the right prescription sunglasses

If your Medicare plan comes with an eyewear benefit, consider using it for prescription sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Protecting your eyes means blocking the harmful UV rays that can cause cataracts and damage your retinas. 

Sentara Medicare D-SNP members can use their eyewear benefit toward prescription sunglasses.

Want to find out more about a D-SNP from Sentara Medicare?

One of our friendly Licensed Plan Advisors can help you find which plan fits your eligibility. We can answer your questions and help you enroll. You can also find more information on our website at sentaramedicare.com/DSNP.

1-877-550-3285 (TTY: 711)

April 1-September 30 | Monday-Friday | 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

October 1-March 31 | 7 days a week | 8 a.m.-8 p.m. 

Sources:

National Library of Medicine
CDC 
Skin Cancer Foundation

Sentara Medicare is an HMO Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (HMO D-SNP) that has contracts with Medicare and the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services’ Medicaid program. “Cardinal Care” is the brand name of Virginia Medicaid.

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