Sun Safety Facts Every Resident at TerraBella Greenville Should Know

Living in the beautiful and sunny city of Greenville, South Carolina, offers many opportunities for residents of TerraBella Greenville to enjoy the outdoors — whether it’s relaxing on the patio, strolling through landscaped gardens, or participating in outdoor activities with friends.

However, spending time in the sun also comes with some risks, especially for older adults.

Sun safety is not just about avoiding sunburn. For seniors, it’s also about protecting aging skin from long-term damage, reducing the risk of skin cancer, and avoiding overheating and dehydration.

Let’s explore the most important sun safety facts and practical tips every resident at TerraBella Greenville should know to enjoy summer health for older adults.

1. Aging Skin Is More Vulnerable to UV Damage

As we age, our skin becomes thinner and less elastic, making it more susceptible to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This increases the risk of:

• Sunburns

• Skin cancer (including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma)

• Age spots and uneven pigmentation

• Wrinkles and premature aging

In fact, according to the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, and older adults are at a higher risk due to accumulated aging and sun exposure over the years.

2. Even Indirect Sunlight Can Cause Harm

Many people believe that unless you’re directly sunbathing, you’re not at risk. However, UV rays can still damage your skin on cloudy days, in shaded areas, or even while sitting indoors near a window.

UV rays come in two types:

• UVA: Penetrates deep into the skin and contributes to aging and long-term damage.

• UVB: Causes sunburn and plays a major role in developing skin cancer.

Both types can reach your skin even when the sun isn’t shining brightly, making daily senior skin protection using sunscreen essential.

3. Sunscreen Should Be a Daily Habit

Using sunscreen isn’t just for trips to the beach. It should be part of your daily routine, especially when spending time outside at TerraBella Greenville.

What to look for in a sunscreen:

• Broad-spectrum protection (against UVA and UVB)

• SPF 50 or higher

• Water resistance (helpful when sweating)

Here’s how to apply:

• Apply 15-30 minutes before going outside.

• Use about a shot glass amount (one ounce) to cover the whole body.

• Reapply every two hours or after sweating or towel-drying.

Don’t forget overlooked areas like the tops of ears, the back of the neck, and the tops of hands.

4. Protective Clothing Matters

In addition to sunscreen, wearing the right clothing can offer powerful sun protection. Here are some smart choices for outdoor activities when at an independent living community:

• Wide-brimmed hats: Provide shade to the face, ears, and neck.

• UV-protective sunglasses: Help prevent cataracts and damage to the eyes.

• Long-sleeved shirts and pants: Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics labeled with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor).

• Umbrellas or parasols: Great for seated events or when watching outdoor performances.

At TerraBella Greenville, where social events and outdoor leisure are part of daily life, dressing smart for the sun helps you stay safe without missing out on the fun.

5. The Peak Sun Hours Are Riskier

The sun’s rays are most intense between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. During this window, UV radiation levels peak, and your risk of sunburn or heat-related illness increases.

Here are some UV safety tips during peak sun hours:

• Plan outdoor walks or gardening early in the morning or late afternoon.

• Take breaks in shaded or covered areas.

• Use umbrellas or shaded seating during midday social events.

6. Hydration Is Key for Sun Safety

Being in the sun can lead to dehydration, especially in seniors whose sense of thirst may be diminished. Dehydration can cause:

• Dizziness or fainting

• Fatigue

• Headaches

• Confusion (which may be mistaken for cognitive decline)

Here’s how to stay hydrated:

• Drink water throughout the day-not just when you feel thirsty.

• Eat water-rich foods like melons, cucumbers, and oranges.

• Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol in the sun, which can dehydrate you.

Residents of TerraBella Greenville can take advantage of the community’s amenities, like hydration stations and dining services, to maintain proper fluid intake.

7. Medications Can Increase Sun Sensitivity

Some common medications prescribed to seniors can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. This condition is called photosensitivity, and it can increase your risk of burning, rashes, or even sun poisoning.

Examples of medications that may increase sun sensitivity:

• Antibiotics (like doxycycline)

• Diuretics (water pills)

• Antihistamines

• Certain heart and blood pressure medications

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

If you’re taking any of these medications, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist about sun precautions.

8. Regular Skin Checks Are Essential

Early detection is key when it comes to skin cancer. Even if you’ve never had a sunburn or don’t spend much time outside, it’s important to perform monthly skin self-exams and schedule annual skin screenings with a dermatologist.

Look out for the following:

• New moles or growths

• Changes in the color, shape, or size of existing moles

• Sores that don’t heal

• Scaly or crusty patches

9. Vitamin D Without the Risk

Sunlight helps our bodies produce vitamin D, which supports bone health and the immune system. However, you don’t need to overexpose your skin to get enough. A few minutes of sun exposure on the arms or legs is usually sufficient, and many older adults may benefit more from dietary sources or supplements.

Safe sources of vitamin D include:

• Fortified dairy or plant-based milks

• Fatty fish like salmon or mackerel

• Egg yolks

• Supplements (with your doctor’s guidance)

Sun Safety Facts: Use Them Diligently

You should be aware of sun safety facts and use them daily without fail, because your summer health depends on it. So go ahead — take that morning walk, enjoy lunch on the terrace, or join your neighbors for an outdoor game. Just don’t forget your sunscreen, hat, and water bottle!

At TerraBella Greenville, we’re all about providing our residents with a worry-free lifestyle, and outdoor wellness for seniors is one of our priorities. At our all-inclusive senior living community, we prioritize leisure and fun while ensuring that all UV safety tips are followed.

Ready to see all of our amenities and services in action? Book a tour of our community today.