Environmental Health Risks for Seniors

One-fifth of the population in America are seniors. Older adults aged 60 and up are more vulnerable to environmental health risks such as poor air quality, contaminated water, and pollution. These issues can cause a variety of problems, especially for seniors who are unable to handle them. Luckily, these environmental health risks for seniors can be addressed by taking proper precautions, which will be covered in this article.

What are the Environmental Health Risks for Seniors? 

Seniors are more vulnerable to environmental health risks because their bodies are less able to adapt and cope with them. They also are more likely to have other health conditions that may be affected by these environmental health risks. Here are the main environmental health risks that pose a threat to seniors.

Air Pollution 

Air pollution is everywhere and negatively affects everyone. Seniors are especially vulnerable to air pollution. Air pollution can worsen heart conditions, strokes, respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as diabetes. 

Mold in the home can also increase air pollution making the health risks even higher. This can result in higher medication usage, more frequent healthcare visits, increased emergency room and hospital admissions. In some cases, it may even lead to death.

Water Contamination and Pollution 

Water contamination and pollution are growing global problems. These pollutants can affect the health of seniors by: 

• Inducing hormonal changes
• Accelerating aging
• Leading to the premature onset of age-related diseases

Chemical Exposure at Home

Personal care for seniors and cleaning products, furniture, electronics, and other consumer products may contain chemicals that often end up in the air. The chemicals found in these products, such as phthalates, flame retardants, and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), often affect the health of Americans. These substances are linked to harmful health effects, such as reproductive and endocrine system toxicity.

Climate Change

Climate change may lead to higher levels of outdoor air pollutants, including ground-level ozone, particulate matter from wildfire smoke, and dust from droughts. These pollutants can increase the risk of heart attacks, particularly in older adults who are diabetic or obese. Additionally, air pollution can worsen conditions like asthma and COPD, while exposure to ground-level ozone can impair lung function.

How Can These Risks Be Minimized?

Fortunately, there are various ways to remove these health risks from our environment. Here are some steps to help you avoid health risks associated with air pollution, water contamination, household chemicals, and climate change.

How to Protect Your Loved Ones from Air Pollution

Studies indicate that poor air quality causes over 100,000 premature deaths in the US. Consider staying indoors as much as possible when the air quality is poor. If you need to go outside, wear a mask that fully covers their nose and mouth for added protection.

Regularly check the Air Quality Index (AQI), which shows how polluted the air is. If the AQI is high, try to remain indoors to reduce exposure to harmful pollutants.

Besides this, avoid physically demanding activities when the air quality is poor. Physical exertion, especially when done outdoors, can make you more vulnerable to the effects of pollution.

Keep doors and windows closed, and use a high-efficiency HEPA purifier. Avoid smoking, burning candles, or cooking fried foods to minimize indoor pollutants.

How to Keep Seniors Safe from Water Contamination and Pollution

You can avoid water pollution and contamination by getting your water tested and taking the necessary precautions. Around 90% of people in the US access tap water through the public system. Your utilities are supposed to test the water regularly. 

However, the pipes within your home may be adding contaminants to your tap water. If you’re getting your water from a private well, it’s your responsibility to test it and ensure that it’s safe for consumption. 

Tap water may include chemicals like lead, PFAS (also called forever chemicals), and arsenic. You may also face germs such as Rotavirus and Salmonella in the tap water. You should test the water because waterborne diseases and other contaminants can cause health issues. 

If the quality of water is not good, consider reaching out to your utility or health department. Be sure to take these steps to make water safe for drinking. 

How to Prevent Chemical Exposure at Home

When using any household chemical, it’s important to read the labels and follow the instructions.

Wear PPE or personal protective equipment when using household chemicals that can be dangerous. This can include gloves, safety glasses/goggles, and a respiratory mask. For seniors with decreased cognitive capabilities, consider locking up household chemicals that could cause harm. 

How to Protect Seniors from the Effects of Climate Change

Here are some simple steps you can take to keep yourself or a loved one safe from the harmful effects of climate change:

• Stay hydrated, wear loose, light-colored clothing, and remain in air-conditioned spaces. 
• Check the air quality through local sources and online platforms.
• Use insect repellents to avoid bites from bugs and ticks.

How Nurse Next Door Keeps Seniors Safe

The caregivers at Nurse Next Door Virginia can provide personalized care to your loved ones. We go the extra mile to ensure their safety, health, and well-being. Our licensed caregivers can provide guidance and assistance to keep seniors healthy. Nurse Next Door’s caregivers help your loved ones safe at home through daily checks, household tasks, and precautionary measures.

Seniors often face environmental health risks, such as poor air quality, water contamination, chemical exposure, and climate change. These risks can worsen existing health conditions. But effective measures such as monitoring air and water quality, reducing chemical exposure, and staying informed can help you maintain health.