The Sun is a fiery star positioned in the center of our Solar System. Earth, at least from a life-sustaining standpoint, could not survive without it. As we know, this sphere-shaped mass gives off light and heat and is a major source of Earth’s energy (in short, it’s hot!). It is composed primarily of hydrogen and helium and possesses magnetically active fields.
The Earth takes 365 days to rotate around the Sun, but that does not mean the Sun is stationary. It also rotates, although the time it takes for rotation at its equator and poles are not the same. To get an idea of its size, it is over 100 times wider than the Earth. Still, from a star size perspective, it is probably in the average range.
What does this all mean to you? Well, the Sun deserves a great deal of respect, but it can also be damaging. Here are some thoughts to consider when you are exposed to its rays.
- Limit Sun Exposure. Limiting sun exposure is important for everyone, but seniors should take special care because their skin has more years of contact (e.g., mature skin may have a greater degree of sun damage). Unfortunately, as we become older, our skin thins, and protection because even more vital. Even so, a certain measure of exposure is positive because we get most of a needed vitamin from the sun: vitamin D. Some seniors are deficient in vitamin D, so it is important to regularly have your levels checked. Having said all of that, excessive sun can lead to negative skin changes, like abnormal cell formation. In this case, too much of a good thing is not good.
- Wear protective clothing. There are times you can’t avoid being in the sun for longer periods. Perhaps you have plans to participate in a walking tour or will be spending a few hours at a beach, park, lake, baseball field, or other outdoor setting. When this is the situation, protective clothing is a great way to guard against the sun’s potentially harmful rays. Long pants, a long shirt or top, and a wide-rim hat are great choices to consider. If the air is very warm, it is best to choose lightweight, light-colored, cotton clothing (it breathes better and is cooler).
- Put on sunscreen. Sunscreen has been mentioned before, but it is worth mentioning again. If you are only popping your head, hands, and other exposed parts of your body outdoors for brief periods, then sunscreen may not be necessary. However, if you will be in the sun for protracted periods, even if it is cloudy but the sun is peeking through, then it makes sense to apply sunscreen. What type? Be sure to choose an SPF of 15 or above: also pick a product that protects against both UVA (long-wave) and UVB (shortwave) rays.
The Sun is a magnificent star, and without it, we wouldn’t be here. If we exercise a little caution, we can safely revel in its brilliance.
