Safe Sun Made Simple: A Guide for Older Adults

Sunshine feels good, lifts our mood, and helps our bodies make vitamin D. Yet skin grows thinner as we age, so it burns faster and heals slower. Adults 65 and older also have the highest rates of skin cancer in the United States, and men in this age group are about twice as likely as women to develop melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer. 

The good news? A few easy habits can protect your skin all year long. Use the tips and checklist below for yourself, a parent, or a neighbor at The Meadows Senior Living in Clarion, Iowa.

1. Pick the Right Sunscreen

When you shop for sunscreen, look for three key words on the label. First, choose an SPF of 30 or higher; it blocks about 97 percent of the UVB rays that cause sunburn, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Next, be sure it says “broad-spectrum,” which means it also guards against UVA rays that lead to wrinkles and skin cancer. Finally, pick a water-resistant formula so the protection stays put while you sweat, swim, or work in the garden.

• Use about one ounce (a shot-glassful) to cover your body.
• Put it on 20 minutes before you step outside, then reapply every two hours, or sooner if you swim or sweat.
• Sensitive skin? Try a mineral sunscreen with zinc or titanium. They sit on top of the skin and rarely sting.

What’s new? The FDA is updating sunscreen labels so shoppers can see at a glance how well a product blocks UVA rays. Watch for clearer stars or grades soon. 

2. Dress for Defense

• Wide-brim hat (3″ or more).
• UV-blocking sunglasses (labeled “UV 400”).
• Lightweight long sleeves and pants—look for UPF 50 tags.
• Shade: If your shadow is shorter than you, find cover or carry an umbrella.

Remember: water, snow, and even the gravel roads around Clarion bounce sunlight back at you. Keep sunscreen and a hat handy in every season.

3. Time Your Outings

The sun is strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plan walks, gardening, and patio visits earlier or later. Enjoy The Meadows’ shaded courtyard areas or indoor activities during peak hours.

4. Stay Hydrated

Older adults don’t feel thirst as quickly. Sip water often, even if you are not sweaty. Dehydration can make sun-related illnesses worse and raise fall risk.

5. Check Your Medications

Some common drugs—certain antibiotics, diuretics, and pain relievers—can make skin extra sensitive to light. Ask your pharmacist if any of your prescriptions require extra sun care. 

6. Know the Warning Signs

• Cool the skin with damp cloths, drink water, and apply aloe gel.
• Seek medical help if blisters are large, you feel sick, or confusion sets in.

7. Do Monthly Skin Checks

Stand in good light with a hand mirror and follow the ABCDE rule for skin cancer and moles:

• Asymmetry
• Border
• Color
• Diameter larger than a pencil eraser 
• Evolving or changing skin growths 

Catching changes early saves lives; about half of melanomas are first found by patients themselves.

If you notice anything new or different, please call your doctor or ask our nursing staff to help arrange a dermatologist visit. Free screenings are also offered through programs backed by the American Academy of Dermatology.

Quick Sun-Safe Checklist

1. Sunscreen SPF 30+ (apply every 2 hours)
2. Hat & UV sunglasses
3. Light long sleeves & pants
4. Water bottle
5. Shade plan (umbrella or tree)
6. Medication review for sun sensitivity

Final Thoughts

Enjoying Iowa’s bright days is part of a healthy, active life. With the simple steps above, you can soak up the joy of sunshine while keeping your skin—and the skin of those you love—safe. Need help applying sunscreen to hard-to-reach spots or choosing protective clothing? The Meadows Senior Living care team is always happy to lend a hand. 

We invite you to learn more about the maintenance-free apartments in our senior living community in Iowa. View our gallery, senior apartment options, and senior living amenities to learn more about our vibrant 55+ community, or take a virtual tour of our apartments today!