As summer temperatures rise in Massachusetts and across the country, caregivers on the go from home health aides to traveling nurses are spending more time outdoors commuting between clients, taking brief outdoor breaks, or escorting patients to appointments. While caregiving is a rewarding and demanding profession, it’s essential that caregivers also take steps to care for themselves especially when it comes to protecting their skin from harmful UV rays.
In this article, we’ll share important UV protection tips for caregivers, promoting both safety and comfort during the sunniest months of the year.
Why UV Protection Matters for Caregivers
Many home health caregivers and nursing staff work flexible, mobile schedules that involve time outdoors. Exposure to UV rays even for short periods throughout the day can lead to sunburn, skin aging, eye damage, and increase the risk of skin cancer. The need for protection is year-round, but it’s especially important from late spring through early fall, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Quick Fact:
Up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can pass through clouds. That means even on overcast days, caregivers can still be exposed.
Top UV Protection Tips for Caregivers in the Field
1. Wear SPF Every Day
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on your face, neck, hands, and any other exposed skin. Reapply every 2 hours especially if you sweat or wash your hands frequently.
2. Choose Protective Clothing
Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, scrubs with UPF fabric, or UV-blocking arm sleeves. Clothing made of tightly woven fabric offers better sun protection while remaining breathable for long shifts.
3. Use Sunglasses with UV Protection
Choose sunglasses that block 99–100% of UVA and UVB rays to protect your eyes from long-term damage. Wraparound frames offer even more coverage.
4. Don a Wide-Brim Hat or Cap
A wide-brimmed hat can shield your face, ears, and neck from direct sunlight. For a more compact option, try a sun visor cap with added UV protection.
5. Stay Hydrated and Cool
While not directly related to UV, staying hydrated helps your body manage sun exposure. Carry a reusable water bottle and take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas whenever possible.
6. Schedule Around Peak Sun Hours
If your caregiving schedule allows, try to limit outdoor exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV rays are strongest.
Tips for Agencies and Employers
Home health agencies and nurse staffing providers can help caregivers stay protected by:
- Supplying UV-protective uniforms or accessories
- Encouraging staff to wear sunscreen
- Offering hydration stations or travel water bottles
- Including sun safety in employee wellness training
At Informatix Health, we know our caregivers give so much to the people they serve. That’s why we continue to advocate for caregiver wellness, safety, and preventative health even during their busiest days.
Being a caregiver means showing up every day with compassion, strength, and resilience. Taking a few simple steps to protect yourself from UV damage ensures you can continue to deliver excellent care while prioritizing your own health. Let’s make this summer a safe and healthy season for all caregivers on the go.