A representative from Interim HealthCare will present a talk titled, “Signs of Skin Cancer,” at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 13, at the Oak Park Arms retirement community, 408 S. Oak Park Ave.
The seminar is part of the ongoing monthly series called, “Here’s To Your Health.” The Interim Healthcare representative will lead an educational discussion on signs of skin cancer including prevention and detection.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and research indicates that more than 50 percent of deaths associated with skin cancer occur in seniors over the age of 65.
Because damage from the sun’s rays is cumulative, skin cancer among seniors is more prevalent than in the younger population. It is important that seniors continue to practice safe sun exposure as they age, especially since aging skin loses its ability to protect itself and old sun damage is further harmed by current sun exposure.
As skin ages, it becomes harder to detect signs of cancer. Skin maturity includes wrinkles, decreased elasticity, age spots and dryness.
Early detection is extremely important, and seniors should consult a doctor for any moles that:
• are raised
• have changed in shape
• have jagged edges
• have discolorations
• show signs of bleeding
Seniors should perform regular self-examinations of moles and other skin spots and visit a doctor annually for a professional exam.
Oak Park Arms Senior Living is a rental retirement community which provides senior housing in the form of independent living. Furnished apartments are also available for a short-term stay – a weekend, a week, a month or longer.
The program is free and open to the public. For more information call 708-386-4040.
