The Hidden Danger Of A Warm Home For Seniors
The temperature of a home can significantly affect the cognitive function of older adults, according to a recent study published in the Journal of Gerontology: Medical Sciences. Researchers found that seniors perform best in tasks that require attention when their home temperature is kept between 68 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature deviated by as little as 7 degrees, the likelihood of attention difficulties doubled.
The study emphasizes the importance of understanding how environmental factors, like temperature, influence brain health in aging populations. As people age, they become less able to cope with temperature fluctuations, which can be worsened by chronic illnesses or the medications used to treat them.
For this study, researchers monitored the home temperatures of 47 seniors aged 65 and older between October 2021 and March 2023. Participants completed daily surveys via smartphone, responding to questions about their ability to focus. The results showed a “U-shaped relationship” between temperature and attention, with both extremes of temperature making it harder for seniors to maintain focus.
This research highlights the potential impact of climate change on the cognitive health of aging individuals, as temperature extremes may increase the risk of cognitive decline. The study also points out that many older adults, even in wealthier countries, may not have access to affordable heating and cooling systems, or the physical and cognitive ability to use them properly.
To address these issues, the researchers suggest the development of technologies, financial assistance, and policies to help seniors maintain a comfortable home environment. They advocate for automated temperature control systems, financial support to combat energy poverty, and investment in housing improvements to protect older adults from temperature-related health risks.
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