If you have elderly loved ones, you likely want them to have the best quality of life possible. Senior citizens are generally susceptible to the harmful effects of poor air quality. Here are several ways you can improve the indoor air quality for your elderly loved ones in Gretna, LA.
Keep Windows Open
Proper ventilation is a great way to clear the air inside a house. Periodically opening the windows will help dilute the pollutants hanging outside with some fresh air, whether in the morning or evening. However, you will need to keep a close eye on the outdoor air quality and weather conditions. Also, ensure your HVAC system is shut off to avoid wasting energy.
In case you’re not at home, you can ask a family member or caregiver to open the windows for your elderly loved one. This kind of natural ventilation will ensure that everyone in your household always breathes fresh air.
Inspect Air Filters
Air filters assist in capturing pollen, dust, and other allergens that are crucial in improving air quality. If they’re unable to function effectively, then it can result in poor air quality. The best way to achieve this is to ensure your air filters are clog-free.
Through routine maintenance, an HVAC professional will check your air filters and clean or replace them when necessary. You should also ensure your system is the right size for your home to maximize energy efficiency.
Vacuum and Dust Frequently
Particles hanging in the air can trigger allergies and viruses among older adults. That’s why getting rid of them through regular vacuuming and dusting is important. You can also use air cleaners to deal with sneaky air pollutants in your home.
Your house should be clean and free from clutter to minimize the amount of dust in the air. Ensure your doors and windows are open to let out dust and allow in fresh air.
Use Chemical-Free Products
Another way to improve air quality for your elderly family members is to reduce the use of products that contain chemicals. Some items may produce harmful fumes, including paint and cleaning products. Try as much as possible to buy low-emitting products. Research and seek advice on the safest items to use.
Upgrade Your AC System
Air conditioners have a limited lifespan. If they exceed that lifespan, then they’ll cease to function efficiently. A new and improved cooling system helps to eliminate the excess humidity in the air.
Talk to a professional to inspect and install a new system if your existing one isn’t functioning properly. An AC upgrade is one of the best ways to improve your home’s indoor air quality.
Grow Plants in Your Home
Keeping plants in your home is also a great way of improving air quality for your senior loved ones. Other than the aesthetic value, they help filter out toxins from the air. Examples of plants with air purifying properties include snake, spider, and zz plants.
Test and Monitor Your Home
You should have your home tested occasionally for radon as a way to prevent the likelihood of poor indoor air quality. Radon not only has no smell, but it’s also a colorless gas naturally found in some soil and can lead to serious illnesses if it makes its way inside your home.
Groom Your Pets
If your family includes fluffy members, be sure they get groomed periodically. Every member of your family, young and old, is at risk of pet-related allergies from dust and dander. Ensure all grooming is done in well-ventilated areas and all hair and dander are immediately cleaned up.
Your elderly loved ones deserve peace and comfort in their later years. One way of ensuring that is by improving the air quality where they live. Schedule an appointment with Bryans United Air Conditioning today for upgraded IAQ services and perhaps a new HVAC installation.
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