UV Safety Tips for Seniors

How to Enjoy the Sunshine While Protecting Your Health

Soaking up the sun can feel like one of life’s simplest pleasures. It boosts your mood, helps your body produce vitamin D, and encourages outdoor activity—all of which are especially valuable as we age. But for seniors, protecting skin and eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is key to staying safe and healthy.

UV Safety Month is the perfect reminder follow UV safety tips for seniors to stay sun-smart, especially during peak summer months. Here’s how seniors—and their caregivers—can enjoy the benefits of sunshine while minimizing the risks.

The Benefits of Sunlight

Spending time outdoors can:

• Improve mood and fight seasonal depression
• Help regulate sleep cycles
• Support bone health by promoting vitamin D production
• Encourage physical activity and social connection

But like most good things, moderation matters.

The Risks of Too Much Sun

As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more vulnerable to UV damage. Prolonged exposure to the sun without protection increases the risk of:

• Skin cancer, including melanoma
• Sunburns that take longer to heal
• Eye damage like cataracts
• Dehydration and heat exhaustion

The good news? A few simple habits can go a long way in keeping seniors safe in the sun. See additional CDC sun safety tips for more ways to stay protected.

UV Safety Tips for Seniors

1. Time It Right
   Avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest. Early mornings and late afternoons are safer times to be outside.
2. Wear Protective Clothing
   Long-sleeved shirts, pants, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats provide an extra barrier between skin and the sun.
3. Apply Sunscreen Daily
   Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Don’t forget often-missed spots like the ears, neck, and tops of the feet.
4. Stay Hydrated
   Seniors are more prone to dehydration, especially when it’s hot. Keep water nearby and sip frequently.
5. Know Your Medications
   Some prescriptions increase sun sensitivity. A nurse or pharmacist can help review medication interactions and advise on sun safety precautions.

How VitalCaring Supports Sun-Safe Wellness

At VitalCaring, we support the whole person—including healthy routines like time outdoors. Our home health teams help patients enjoy safe exposure to sunlight by:

• Educating on medication-related sun sensitivity
• Assisting with hydration and skincare
• Encouraging gentle outdoor activity in safe conditions
• Monitoring for signs of sun-related skin concerns

We work alongside families to ensure each patient feels confident, connected, and cared for—rain or shine. Learn more about our services. 

Enjoy the Sunshine, Safely

Whether it’s a morning walk, gardening, or simply sitting on the porch, time in the sun should be relaxing and restorative. With the right precautions and a care team that understands your unique needs, you can safely enjoy all the benefits the sunshine brings.