In Chattanooga, as temperatures fall during the winter, it is almost impossible to have open-air ventilation in the home. As a result, seniors are often left to deal with indoor pollutants and poor air quality that can affect their health during the winter months. Fortunately, there are things that can be done about this poor indoor air quality that can ensure elderly loved ones have the clean air they need all winter long.
Common Problems with Indoor Air Quality
Most buildings today are made with improved insulation and high-efficiency doors and windows that are designed to stop warm air from getting out during the cold winter months. Unfortunately, this also means that seniors residing in the house or building are left to deal with recirculated air. Add in the fact that this air is often filled with mold spores, germs, odors, dust, and other pollutants, and it is common for seniors to be left dealing with poor air quality that can impact their overall health.
Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Thankfully, even in the winter, indoor air quality can be improved. The below methods are simple ways to clean the air and ensure that homes and buildings are safe for senior loved ones.
Replace Air Filters
Make sure that air filters are replaced at least every 90 days. Some of these filters are known to catch over 90% of large particles, such as mold and pet dander, as well as dust, bacteria, and even virus-carrying particles.
Be Careful When Using Appliances
Make sure that appliances are only used for their intended purposes. For instance, do not turn on a gas stove to warm the home, as this can result in smoke or harmful particles entering the area and significantly impacting the air quality.
Have the Home Deep Cleaned
Getting the home deep cleaned is a great way to reduce allergens, such as soil, pollen, and animal dander, from floors and carpets. It also helps if the carpets are vacuumed frequently, and the tiles and hardwood are moped regularly.
Consider a Humidifier
Indoor air quality is not only affected by pollutants and allergens. During the winter months, this air can also be impacted if it is too dry, which can also result in itchy eyes, throat issues, and other respiratory problems. However, having a humidifier in the home can improve these moisture levels and negate some of these adverse effects.
Get Help From Senior Helpers of Chattanooga
Sometimes seniors may need extra assistance when taking care of the home, especially in the winter. Luckily, Senior Helpers serves areas such as Chattanooga, including Hixson, Cleveland, Red Bank, Signal Mountain, and Ooltewah, and provides dedicated staff to help with not only personal and companion care but they can also assist with things such as keeping the home cleaned as well as making sure seniors are properly taken care of and can continue to have productive daily lives. For more information about these services, contact Senior Helpers today.