This article was contributed by Diana Royanto of Walk In Tubs
Fresh and clean air in your home is essential for maintaining your health and making sure your loved ones are comfortable. Therefore, indoor air quality isn’t something that should just be nice to have ā it should be a necessity.
You might be wondering what poor air quality looks like. It can be hard to spot since air isn’t something we can see with the naked eye. A few signs of poor air quality include health issues, such as coughs or respiratory problems, dust buildup, and an unpleasant smell that could indicate mould growth.
When mould is present, the air quality of an environment decreases, causing a variety of health issues. One such cause of compromised indoor air quality is mould and mildew, which can grow in areas with high humidity levels and poor ventilation. Although you can try to prevent mould growth, it’s often inevitable, especially in humid climates.
Although it may seem like air quality plays a trivial role in one’s health, it’s crucial for ensuring the health and wellbeing of everyone, especially elderly individuals.
As we age, our immune system weakens. This leaves us increasingly vulnerable to respiratory problems and infections. This makes it especially important for elderly people to live in environments with good indoor air quality to prevent any health problems. In this article, we explore some tips for improving indoor air quality and reducing mould growth in homes with older people.
The Dangers of Mould and Mildew for Older People
Mould and mildew are types of fungi that grow in damp areas with poor ventilation. Although they may be small in size, exposure to these fungi can cause seriously respiratory problems, such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. This is particularly likely in older people with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD. Additionally, mould and mildew exposure can lead to infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis, which can be especially dangerous.
Older people are particularly vulnerable to the dangers of mould and mildew exposure, which can compromise their already weakened immune systems and cause severe health problems. Moreover, mould and mildew can trigger allergic reactions, causing symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Older people with weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to allergies, making mould and mildew exposure especially harmful.
Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality
One of the most important things you can do to improve indoor air quality is to keep your home relatively clean and free of dust. Dust buildup can contribute to poor air quality, so it would be best to get rid of any dust in your home. Removing dust can also remove allergens and pollutants from the air.
Another key step in improving air quality is increasing ventilation. This can also help reduce the chances of mould growth. Maintaining proper humidity levels is also key to reducing mould growth and keeping the air quality in your home high. Here are some practical tips you can follow to improve air quality at home.
Clean and Dust Regularly
Dust and dirt can accumulate quickly. Regular cleaning and dusting can help to remove these particles, preventing them from being inhaled. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap small particles.
Increase Ventilation
Good ventilation is essential to reduce indoor air pollution and mould growth. Opening windows or using a fan can help improve air circulation and reduce the concentration of indoor pollutants.
Maintain Proper Humidity
Other than lack of ventilation, high humidity levels can also promote the growth of mould and mildew. Older people living in high-humidity areas should use dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels below 50%.
Use Natural Air Purifiers
Did you know that some plants can help remove pollutants from the air? And salt lamps emit negative ions, which can neutralise pollutants. Using these in your home could improve air quality. A couple of air-purifying plants that are safe for home use are the English Ivy and Boston Fern.
By following these tips, older people can enjoy better indoor air quality, which can reduce the risks associated with mould and mildew exposure. You should also remember that improving indoor air quality is an ongoing process, and regular maintenance is needed to ensure a healthy living environment.
Reducing Mould Growth
If you are dealing with mould instead of dust, there are also ways to deal with it. Mould and mildew can turn into a big problem if left unchecked. Thankfully, they can be prevented by taking several measures in your home. Here are some tips to reduce mould and mildew growth and maintain good air quality in your home.
Fix Leaks and Water Damage
Water damage and leaks should be addressed as soon as they are detected. This will prevent moisture buildup, which is a breeding ground for mould and mildew.
Use a Dehumidifier
Older people living in high-humidity areas should use dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels below 50%. This will help prevent mould and mildew growth in damp areas like cellars, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Opt for Self-Cleaning Gadgets
Self-cleaning gadgets like walk-in tubs can help prevent mould or mildew growth by eliminating the need for manual cleaning. One of the many good reasons to get a walk-in tub is because of its self-cleaning features. This helps to reduce mould and mildew and improve air quality.
Clean and Disinfect High-Moisture Areas
Bathrooms, kitchens, and other high-moisture areas should be cleaned regularly with disinfectant to prevent mould and mildew growth. Using a mould and mildew-specific cleaner can make all the difference.
Maintain Proper Ventilation
You can keep your home dry and prevent mould growth by keeping it properly ventilated. Make sure your bathroom and kitchen have extractor fans to remove moisture, improving air quality. If you don’t have an extractor fan, consider using a dehumidifier instead.
Use Mould-Resistant Products
Using products such as mould-resistant drywall, paint, and insulation can be effective in preventing mould growth in areas that are prone to moisture buildup. This way, you won’t have to clean the area regularly.
By following these tips, older people can improve their homes’ air quality by preventing mould and mildew growth. This, in turn, can help to reduce the risk of associated health problems.
Conclusion
Improving indoor air quality and reducing mould growth is essential for maintaining the health and wellbeing of older people living independently at home. By following these tips, you can help to make sure that your loved ones are breathing clean, fresh air and are less likely to be exposed to harmful mould and mildew.
Remember to clean regularly, increase ventilation, maintain proper humidity levels, fix leaks and water damage, and use mould-resistant products in areas prone to mould growth. By taking these steps, you can create a safe and healthy environment with good air quality.
Personal Alarms from LifeConnect24
It’s important to feel safe in your own home. Good air quality can help improve your overall health, but what if you experience an emergency? With a personal alarm from LifeConnect24, you can call for help at the press of a button. Find out more by reading our detailed guide or give our team a call on 0800 999 0400. You can order a personal alarm online or by calling our sales team on 0800 030 8999.
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