Understanding the Importance of Indoor Air Quality For Seniors

There are a lot of changes that occur in the body with age, requiring more specialized care. One thing that is often ignored is the quality of indoor air. However, it can have a big effect on the health of seniors. In this blog, the importance of indoor air quality and how loved ones and companion care at home aides can help are discussed, as well as ways to improve the air quality if needed.

Companion Care at Home Fair Lawn NJ – Understanding the Importance of Indoor Air Quality For Seniors

What Is Indoor Air Quality?

Indoor air quality is the state of the air inside a building, taking in the amount of pollution, the temperature, the humidity, and the airflow. Poor indoor air quality can make people of all ages sick, but the effects are often worse on seniors because their immune systems are weaker, and their lungs don’t work as well.

Why Does Indoor Air Quality Matter?

Since seniors are susceptible to many health issues, the quality of the air they breathe is essential to ensure good health.

Issues they might have with poor air quality are detailed below.

Poor Lung Health: Seniors are more likely to get lung diseases like pneumonia, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Poor home air quality can make these problems worse or even cause them to start. Dust mites, cat dander, mold, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are common indoor pollutants that can irritate the respiratory system. This makes it harder for adults to breathe and raises their risk of getting respiratory infections. Companion care at home aides can help minimize these issues with consistent cleaning, but maintaining good air quality is also a must.

Cardiovascular Health: It is thought that in-home air pollution can cause problems with the heart and blood vessels. Poor air quality is thought to be linked to high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes, which can be especially dangerous for older people who may already have heart problems. Clean air also helps keep the heart healthy, which lowers the risk of heart illnesses.

Cognitive Functioning: Seniors who are exposed to high amounts of indoor air pollutants may have issues with cognitive functioning, leading to problems with memory and concentration, as well as a higher chance of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Immune Issues: Seniors’ immune systems are often weaker, making them more likely to get sick. Pathogens can get into their homes through bad indoor air quality, making them more likely to get respiratory diseases and other illnesses. By keeping the air clean, adults are less likely to be exposed to harmful microorganisms, which helps them stay healthy.

Advice for Seniors on How to Improve Indoor Air Quality

With help from loved ones and their companion care at home team, seniors can improve the air quality in their homes and live healthier lives. This includes making sure there is good ventilation by opening windows and using exhaust fans to let fresh air from outside move through the house. In addition, investing in a high-quality air purifier as well as controlling humidity is key.

Indoor air quality is a very important part of a healthy and comfortable living situation for seniors. Loved ones and the home care team can offer seniors a better quality of life as they age by following the above tips.

Sources: https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/indoor-air/index.cfm#:~:text=Both%20short%2D%20and%20long%2Dterm,%2C%20cognitive%20deficits%2C%20and%20cancer.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7799383/
https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Home/The-Inside-Story-A-Guide-to-Indoor-Air-Quality

If you or a senior family member are considering hiring  Companion Care at Home Services in Fair Lawn NJ, please contact the caring staff at Caring Solutions Home Care LLC. In-home senior care servicing Bergen & Passaic Counties. Call today at (973) 427-3553.