As our loved ones age, they become more susceptible to various health problems, including melanoma. Age is a significant risk factor for skin cancer, mainly because seniors have weaker immune systems, making it harder for them to combat cancerous cells. Additionally, their lifelong sun exposure can contribute to a higher risk of developing melanoma.
Let's delve into melanoma risk factors, and how we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from the risks of developing skin cancer.
Skin Cancer Risk Factors
While seniors are more at risk, melanoma can impact the entire family. Everyone should be aware of these common risk factors:
Genetics
Families with a history of skin cancer are at higher risk, especially if close relatives have been diagnosed. Certain gene mutations can also make individuals more prone to the disease. If melanoma is common in your family, it's important to closely monitor skin health.
People with pale skin and light hair are at greater risk.
Location
Where you live affects your risk for skin cancer. People living near the equator, where the sun's rays are stronger and more direct, have a higher risk. Higher altitudes allow more UV rays to reach the skin, leading to an increased chance of melanoma. Consider your location when thinking about sun protection.
Lifestyle
Regular sun exposure without proper protection, such as sunscreen or protective clothing, raises the likelihood of developing the disease. Tanning beds, which emit harmful UV rays, are another risk factor. Those with a history of sunburns or many moles are more vulnerable.
How Can We Reduce the Risks of Melanoma?
We can take significant steps to prevent skin cancer. Here are just a few:
Wear Sun Protection
Using high-SPF sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts can go a long way. Staying in the shade during peak sun hours can significantly decrease skin damage from harmful UV rays, therefore minimizing melanoma risk factors.
Get Regular Skin Checks
Early detection is critical. Give yourself monthly self-examinations, and seek out annual professional skin exams. Schedule more frequent dermatologist checkups if you have a family history of melanoma or other risk factors.
How to Support Those In Treatment
If a family member or loved one is diagnosed with melanoma and receiving treatment, recovery, and follow-up care are vital. Here's how you can support their recovery:
Offer Transport for Follow-up Appointments and Tests
Make sure they attend all appointments and undergo the required tests to track their progress and detect any possible recurrence early.
Provide Emotional Support and Encouragement
Empathetically listen to your loved one's concerns, sincerely try to understand their feelings, and reassure them that they're not alone in their fight against melanoma.
Assist With Daily Activities
Offer to help with errands, cooking meals, and providing rides to appointments and social events to help them maintain their quality of life during this difficult time.
Count on Senior Helpers
By taking preventative measures against melanoma risk factors and offering support during recovery, we can greatly impact the lives of our loved ones. If you're looking after a senior in Lexington, Georgetown, Nicholasville, and Shelbyville, KY, please contact us at Senior Helpers Lexington. We're here to help.