A breath of fresh air — older adults and air pollution
Last week, a thick smog converged over my beach town. At first, I and other residents were confused, as sea fog normally only forms in the mornings. The sunsets were stunning, giving a hazy aura, reflecting a deep orange as the sun went down. Though it was beautiful, the true effect of the smog was far more consequential–especially for our youngest populations and older adults.
If you live in Florida like me, you were probably quite confused as well. As it turns out, low pressures pushed a huge portion of smoke from the Canadian forest fires towards the southeast United States, blanketing it in unhealthy fumes. This turned a rare, pretty sunset into a much more concerning topic, especially for our state’s large older adult population. Topics like this can be scary to discuss no matter where you live–and for good reason. Studies show that a specific particle known as PM2.5 can not only compromise respiratory and immune systems, but can even cause accelerated dementia in older adults. Luckily, there are definitive, accessible ways to keep you from inhaling this toxic particle. With that being said, these three ways to combat the dangers of pollution will be a breath of fresh air for us all.
Check air quality outside: The Air Quality Index, or AQI, is the standard for measuring particle density in the air. Acceptable AQI numbers land between 1 and 100, with anything under 50 considered “good” quality. Outdoor activity can be a simple, fun way to engage in with older adults, but remember to check the air quality regularly; In my town, we had the AQI jump from 36 to 140 in a few hours! Keep watch especially in major cities, industrial districts, and places affected by wildfire smoke (such as recently in Florida, California, and New York).
Monitor air quality inside: Whether the AQI number is high, or you simply want an extra bit of protection just in case, the real defense comes from inside your house or facility. Checking air filter quality regularly is paramount to keeping older adults safe indoors. The most effective of these purifiers are known as HEPA filters, which are crafted to specifically counter smaller particles like PM2.5. Stay away from carbon filters, as they do less to combat the most dangerous particles that often contaminate air. When inside, make sure that you monitor emitters such as candles, and gas stoves, and that they have the necessary ventilation as well.
Wear a mask outside: If you have N-95 masks left over from the past couple years, you’re in luck! N-95 and KN-95 masks are fantastic defenders against air pollutants, and will keep you the safest when outside on days where the AQI is high. It is important to still try and remain indoors in unhealthy conditions, but if you must go outside, wearing one of these masks is the next best option.
These are the most important methods of protecting vulnerable populations like older adults from harmful forms of air pollution. Taking these steps may not have an immediate or tangible benefit, but rest assured that you and your community will be safer because of them. If you ever find yourself and your older adults staying indoors, high AQI or otherwise, check out our website at connectcarehero.com. We offer engaging content for older adults to help them stay mentally active, prevent social isolation, and build community, all from the comfort of your home or facility. Visit our website and follow this page for more information on how we can help care for your community — and breathe easy!
