Why We Need More Skin Protection As We Age

Aging Risk of Skin Cancer

​As we age, our risk of developing skin cancer can increase so it is crucial for older adults to protect their skin from the sun by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade. Here are some key points regarding the aging risk of skin cancer:

• Cumulative Sun Exposure: Over the course of their lives, older adults may have had more cumulative sun exposure, which can contribute to an increased risk of skin cancer.
• Decreased Skin Elasticity: Aging results in skin thinning and decreased elasticity. These changes make skin more vulnerable to damage from UV radiation.
• Weakened Immune System: The immune system weakens with age, which can affect the body's ability to detect and eliminate cancer cells. This weakened immune response may contribute to a higher risk of developing skin cancer.
• Pre-existing Skin Conditions: Older adults may have pre-existing skin conditions or lesions, such as non-melanoma skin cancers. These conditions increase the risk of developing subsequent skin cancers.

More Safety Measures
Protection from the sun is just the beginning. By adopting preventive measures and maintaining regular skin health check-ups, the risk of skin cancers can be mitigated:
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• Self-examinations: Older adults should conduct regular self-examinations of their skin, looking for any changes in moles, new growths, or other abnormalities. Know the ABCDEs of moles, and if anything suspicious is noticed, consult a dermatologist promptly.
• Regular Doctor Visits: Routine visits to a dermatologist for skin cancer screenings are crucial. Regular screenings and self-examinations can help identify skin cancer at the earliest stages when treatment is most effective.

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Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about helping seniors “age in place” to avoid hospitalization and nursing homes, and also what services people need to recover from illness and surgery at home. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency.
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Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.

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The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Somerset, and Passaic Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence.

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