Skin Cancer Awareness Month: What Families and Caregivers Need to Know

May is recognized as Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a vital opportunity to shine a light on the most common form of cancer in the United States. We believe informed caregiving starts with education. Understanding skin cancer and knowing how to prevent it empowers families to make proactive choices for their health and the health of their loved ones — especially aging adults who may be at greater risk.

In this blog post, we’ll share everything caregivers and families need to know — from prevention and detection to tips for having conversations about sun safety with your aging loved ones.

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, often triggered by damage from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays or tanning beds. There are three main types:

1. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) – The most common, slow-growing, and rarely spreads.

2. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) – More likely to spread and may appear as scaly or crusty growths.

3. Melanoma – The deadliest type; can develop in existing moles or appear suddenly.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Older adults, particularly those with a history of sun exposure or weakened immune systems, are at a significantly higher risk.

Why Skin Cancer Awareness Matters for Caregivers

Skin cancer awareness is crucial for caregivers because:

• Older adults may not notice or report skin changes.

• They may not apply sunscreen regularly or correctly.

• Many were exposed to sun damage long before UV safety was emphasized.

• Routine skin checks can detect suspicious spots early, when treatment is most effective.

If you’re helping an older parent or loved one with their care, understanding skin cancer can truly be life-saving.

Sun Exposure and Aging Skin

Aging skin is thinner, more fragile, and often more vulnerable to UV damage. Over a lifetime, cumulative sun exposure adds up — and many older adults spent decades outdoors without sunscreen.

Sun damage can:

• Increase the risk of skin cancer

• Lead to sunburns, blisters, or infection

• Cause irregular pigmentation and lesions

Wearing SPF, seeking shade, and covering up with hats and long sleeves can make a big difference.

How to Spot Skin Cancer: The ABCDEs

Early detection of skin cancer can save lives. Here’s what to look for during a monthly skin check:

• A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.

• B – Border: Irregular, ragged, or blurred edges.

• C – Color: Multiple shades of brown, black, pink, or white.

• D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (pencil eraser).

• E – Evolving: Any changes in size, shape, or color.

Encourage your loved one to report any new, itching, bleeding, or growing spots to their doctor right away.

Sun Safety Tips for Aging Adults

As caregivers, here are practical steps to help your loved one stay protected:

1. Sunscreen, Daily: Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours when outdoors.

2. Protective Clothing: Lightweight, long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.

3. Avoid Peak Sun Hours: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. is when UV rays are strongest.

4. Hydration & Skin Moisture: Older skin is prone to dryness. Apply moisturizer daily and stay hydrated.

5. Avoid Tanning Beds: These are dangerous at any age — but especially harmful to older adults.

Talking to Your Loved One About Skin Cancer

It’s not always easy to bring up health concerns, but here’s how to approach the topic with care:

• Be gentle and factual. “I read that May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and I thought we could do a quick skin check together.”

• Offer help, not judgment. Suggest helping them apply sunscreen or book a dermatology check-up.

• Normalize the conversation. Share that many people have precancerous spots removed — it’s part of aging and sun exposure.

When to See a Doctor

If you or your loved one notices any changes in their skin or has a sore that won’t heal, it’s time to see a healthcare provider. Dermatologists can perform thorough skin checks and biopsies if needed.

Even if no symptoms are present, an annual skin exam is a smart preventive measure for anyone over 60 — especially those with a history of sun exposure or light skin tones.

Supporting Someone Diagnosed with Skin Cancer

If your loved one is diagnosed, your role as a caregiver becomes even more important. Here’s how to support them:

• Help manage appointments and transportation.

• Track medication and side effects.

• Offer emotional support and reduce stress by handling daily tasks and errands.

• Help with wound care or surgical sites if needed.

Many treatments for skin cancer are outpatient and highly successful, especially when caught early.

Final Thoughts

Skin cancer may be common, but it’s also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. This May, during Skin Cancer Awareness Month, let’s commit to protecting ourselves and our loved ones by:

• Practicing daily sun safety,

• Being vigilant with skin checks,

• Encouraging annual dermatology visits.

We believe in empowering families with education and care strategies that make a difference. If you need help navigating health decisions for a loved one, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.