Tips for Caring for Your Senior’s Skin During National Skin Care Awareness Month
September is National Skin Care Awareness Month.
As a family caregiver, this is the ideal opportunity for you to learn more about the importance of caring for your aging parent’s skin, and what you can do to protect their skin, and support their health. You have likely heard the saying that skin is the largest organ of the body. This is absolutely true, and the body’s first line of defense against illness and infection. Protecting their skin is a critical step in protecting their overall health and well-being as they age.
Use these tips to care for your senior’s skin throughout your care experience with them:
- Remember that skin damage related to the sun and sunburns doesn’t just happen during the summer months. Anytime your aging parent is out in the sun, they should be wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This will help to protect their skin against burns, as well as dramatically reduce the risk of experiencing skin cancer.
- Encourage your parent to stay hydrated. Drinking enough fluids is an important element of protecting their skin health by keeping it moist and lubricated, and ensuring the cells are able to heal and regrow.
- Encourage your parent to apply high-quality moisturizer to their skin after each bath or shower. When their skin is still damp, apply a cream or ointment style lotion that does not contain water or alcohol as a main ingredient, and that does not have harsh colors or fragrances. Re-apply moisturizer throughout the day as needed.
- Elderly adults can develop sensitive skin issues as they age. If your parent begins to experience symptoms such as redness, itching, or other irritation, it may be an indication that they are allergic to laundry detergents, softeners, or other additives. Try fragrance-free, sensitive skin versions of these products to reduce this irritation.
- Avoid very hot, and very long baths and showers. Hot water and extended exposure to water both dry out the skin, and make it more vulnerable.
- If your aging parent experiences an injury to the skin, such as a scrape, scratch, cut, or insect bite, make sure it is properly cared for, including washing the area and protecting it to reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.
An elderly home care services provider can make a tremendous difference in your parent’s health and quality of life. Elder care is designed to address your senior as a whole individual, not just any single issue or challenge. This allows your senior to continue living the lifestyle they want, while managing their physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being. The services of a care provider are completely customizable. This means your parent has access to the specific care, support, and assistance they need, when they need it. As a family caregiver this can give you reassurance and confidence knowing your parent is able to pursue a lifestyle that is independent and active, giving them the highest quality of life possible as they age in place.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering professional elder care in Clarksville, MD , please call the caring staff at Global Hands Inc. Call today 240-264-0769.
International Men’s Day provides an important opportunity to broaden the discussion around men’s wellbeing—particularly mental health, neurodevelopmental challenges, and emotional resilience. Across the United States, men continue to face significant barriers to accessing timely behavioral health support, often due to cultural expectations, stigma, or lack of awareness. For men and boys with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism, or behavioral health needs , these challenges can be even more pronounced. 🧠 Understanding Men’s Mental Health Needs Men are statistically less likely to seek mental health treatment, even when experiencing symptoms such as: Persistent stress Anxiety Depression Emotional dysregulation Difficulty with social skills Behavioral concerns Substance use Unaddressed, these issues can escalate, affecting relationships, employment, independence, and quality of life. 👦 Men and Developmental Disabilities Men and boys with developmental disabilities often face: Higher rates of undiagnosed mental health conditions Difficulty expressing emotional needs Social isolation Challenges navigating transitions to adulthood Barriers to employment and community integration Tailored care models—including counseling, skills training, behavioral support, daily living assistance, and community-based care—help individuals build confidence and independence. 💬 Breaking Down Stigma One of the most meaningful ways to support men is by promoting open, stigma-free communication. When mental health and developmental needs are normalized, men are more willing to speak up, seek help, and participate in services that improve their wellbeing. Creating supportive environments requires: Strong family and caregiver involvement Inclusive community programs Access to person-centered care Mental health education in schools and workplaces 🏆 Supporting Men Across All Stages of Life Whether supporting a young man transitioning to adulthood, an adult man navigating independent living, or an older man adjusting to new challenges, individualized support ensures dignity, empowerment, and emotional stability. This day is a reminder to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that care systems are inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the evolving needs of men. Visit our website to explore comprehensive mental health, behavioral health, and developmental disability support for men and families across the lifespan. #InternationalMensDay #MensMentalHealth #DevelopmentalDisabilities #BehavioralHealth #IndependentLiving #DisabilitySupport #AutismSupport #WellbeingForMen
Every year on World Prematurity Day , millions of families and healthcare providers pause to recognize the unique challenges faced by infants born before 37 weeks of gestation. While medical care in neonatal units plays a critical role in improving survival rates, the story doesn’t end at discharge. Many premature infants go on to face a higher risk of developmental delays, sensory challenges, learning differences, social difficulties, and behavioral health concerns as they grow. To truly support preterm children, the continuum of care must extend far beyond the NICU, integrating developmental and mental health services through early childhood, school years, and adolescence. 🌱 Understanding Long-Term Outcomes of Prematurity Research consistently shows that children born prematurely may be more likely to experience: Speech and language delays Motor coordination challenges Sensory processing differences Learning and attention difficulties Social-emotional development needs Higher rates of anxiety, ADHD, and behavioral concerns While not every premature child will experience these challenges, early identification and early intervention are key to improving outcomes. 👶 Transitioning from NICU to Developmental Support The transition from NICU to home can be an emotionally overwhelming time for families. Parents must adjust to new routines, follow-up appointments, and uncertainty about long-term development. Clear communication and coordinated services can make this process easier. Families benefit greatly from: Developmental evaluations Occupational, speech, and physical therapy Early behavioral health screenings Family counseling and support resources Regular check-ins with pediatric developmental specialists Early, multidisciplinary support is one of the most effective predictors of long-term success for premature infants. 🧠 Mental Health Support for Families Parents of preterm infants face elevated risks of stress, postpartum depression, and anxiety. Emotional support is just as crucial as medical follow-up care. Family-centered approaches—mental health counseling, support groups, stress-management strategies—help parents advocate effectively for their child’s needs. 💜 A Call for Better Awareness and Access World Prematurity Day is a reminder that developmental support should be accessible, coordinated, and compassionate. It highlights the importance of strong community-based providers who offer comprehensive developmental and behavioral care tailored to each child’s needs. Visit our website to learn more about access to compassionate, comprehensive mental health and developmental disability support for children and families. #WorldPrematurityDay #EarlyIntervention #DevelopmentalCare #NICUGrad #ChildDevelopment #FamilySupport #Neurodevelopment #Pediatrics
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November marks the beginning of a season that encourages reflection, gratitude, and renewal. As the year begins to wind down, it’s the perfect time to focus on mental clarity, self-compassion, and emotional balance. Gratitude is more than a simple “thank you.” It’s a mindset that can transform how we approach life’s challenges. Studies show that practicing daily gratitude can reduce stress, improve mood, and strengthen relationships — all crucial aspects of mental health. As the days grow shorter and routines become busier, take time to pause, breathe, and reflect on what brings peace and purpose. Whether through journaling, connecting with loved ones, or volunteering, every act of gratitude contributes to a healthier mind and a happier community. 🌿Start November with a renewed commitment to mental wellness. Explore how compassionate care can guide your journey at Global Hands Inc. #MentalHealthAwareness #GratitudeMonth #WellnessJourney #MindfulLiving #MarylandCare
October is a month of strength, courage, and community. As the pink ribbons come into view, we are reminded that breast cancer affects millions of women and men each year — but awareness and early detection save lives. The last week of October is a time to reflect on the importance of screenings, education, and emotional support. Beyond the diagnosis, individuals face challenges that impact not only their physical health but also their mental and emotional well-being. Fear, anxiety, and uncertainty can take a toll, making mental health support just as essential as medical care. Family members and caregivers also need compassion and understanding. Building strong, supportive environments helps survivors navigate treatment and recovery with confidence. Encouraging open communication, practicing mindfulness, and joining local awareness events can strengthen our collective effort to fight this disease together. 💗This October, take a moment to learn, support, and advocate for holistic health — body and mind. Visit Global Hands Inc. to learn how compassionate care changes lives. #BreastCancerAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #HolisticCare #SupportAndStrength #MarylandCare
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