About Atlanta senior life. (Sandy Springs, GA) 2016-2023 | View Entire Issue (July 31, 2020)
a few questions on how best to protect aging skin. Q: How often should seniors see a dermatologist? A: The American Cancer Society recommends monthly self-examinations and annual doctor visits to screen for potential skin cancer. For patients that are higher risk, more frequent dermatology visits are recommended. Q: Is there a difference among different skin tones (e.g., will darker skin offer more protection and less skin cancer?) A: There is a myth that people with darker skin tones are immune to skin cancer. This is not true. People with darker skin tones and African Americans do get skin cancer. According to the American College of Dermatology, people with darker skin tones often do not receive a diagnosis until the cancer is can be harder to recognize with darker skin tones. This is why it is important to check your skin on a regular basis to assess abnormal growths or changes. Q: What should we look for? A: Diagnosing skin cancer or changes in your skin begins with a visual examination. When doing monthly exams, it is important to check each spot for any unusual growths and changes in their size, shape, or color. It is important to report any changes to your primary care provider or to your dermatologist for further evaluation or testing. Eye Protection UV rays can also cause eye problems. According to the American Cancer Society, “They can cause the cornea (on the front of the eye) to become inflamed or burned.” They also can also lead to the formation of cataracts, which cloud the lens, or tissue growth on the surface of the eye. Both conditions can impair vision. The CDC reminds us that sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer the best eye protection. Most sunglasses sold in the U.S., regardless of cost, will meet this standard. The “wrap- sound” style work nicely because they block the side entrance of UV sun rays. “Diseases like cataracts and eye cancers can take many years to develop, but each time we’re out in the sun without protection, we could be adding damage and increasing our risk for these serious disorders,” the American Academy of Ophthalmology says on its website. The UV “take-away” message from Johns Hopkins Medicine is a good reminder in that: “Everybody needs some sun exposure to produce vitamin D (which helps with calcium absorption for stronger, healthier bones).” But unprotected exposure to UV rays can cause damage to the skin, eyes and body, and this damage can lead to skin cancer or premature skin aging. So, as you head outside this summer, enjoy the sun, but be careful. Slather on the sunscreen and wear a hat. Medicare does not cover screening for skin cancer in asymptomatic people. It does, however, cover a physician visit initiated by a concerned patient who has noticed, for example, a change in the color of a mole (clinically described as a pigmented nevus or, more generally, skin lesion), or a new skin growth. Similarly, if a physician notices such a suspicious sign during a visit for another purpose and extends the visit to investigate further, Medicare may pay more for the visit if it meets certain criteria for a higher level “evaluation and management service” (which is Medicare payment terminology for a physician visit). In either situation, if the patient is referred to a dermatologist for further assessment, that referral visit is also covered. PARK SPRINGS A Lifte Plan Community Discover What You Lov — e “It is so rewarding creating - something new with your hands Park Springs is Atlanta’s premier Life Plan Community. We offer a continuum of care for every stage of your retirement journey. All of our villas, cottages, and homes are maintenance-free. This gives you the time to stay well, enjoy resort-style living, and pursue your passions every day. Simplify life, multiply your fun with Park Springs. Park Springs Members Enjoy: • Maintenance-free villas, cottages, and homes • Six on-site dining venues including delivery • Gated Community • On-site Doctor & clinic • A continuum of aging care services Interested in Learning About Park Springs? We’re currently scheduling safe ways to experience our community from the comfort of your home. • In-depth calls with our Residency Counselors • Virtual Community Tours • Zoom meetings where you can meet face to face Contact our Residency Counselors to learn more. \' J Take The Next Step & Visit ParkSprings.com An Isakson Living Community (b\ Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care | Skilled Nursing 678-684-3300 | ParkSprings.com | Stone Mountain, GA JULY 2020 I ATLANTASENIORLIFE.COM 13
