A new study reveals the significant impact of indoor temperature on brain function, particularly attention, in older adults. Deviations from the optimal range can double the risk of cognitive lapses. The study also highlights the disproportionate vulnerability of low-income and underserved older adults to temperature fluctuations due to limited access to cooling and heating systems.
New research is shedding light on the profound impact of environmental factors, particularly indoor temperature, on brain function in older individuals. A comprehensive study conducted by researchers at the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research has revealed a direct correlation between deviations from an optimal temperature range and a heightened likelihood of attention difficulties.
The study, which spanned a year, monitored the home temperatures of 47 older adults and their self-reported levels of attention. The findings indicate that older adults demonstrate the best attention performance when indoor temperatures fall within the range of 68–75 F (20–24 C). Outside this range, the risk of experiencing cognitive lapses doubles for every 7 F (4 C) variation. These results underscore the sensitivity of brain function to even subtle changes in environmental conditions, particularly for individuals aged 65 and older. Furthermore, the study highlights the disproportionate impact of temperature fluctuations on low-income and underserved older adults who often lack access to adequate cooling or heating systems, making them more vulnerable to cognitive decline caused by environmental stressors. With climate change driving global temperatures to extremes, the cognitive health of these vulnerable populations is increasingly at risk. To address this growing concern, the researchers propose several proactive solutions. These include integrating smart home technologies to efficiently regulate indoor temperatures, promoting energy-efficient housing to ensure consistent comfort and lower costs, and expanding access to cooling resources for underserved communities. Beyond mitigating physical health risks, public health interventions must also focus on addressing the environmental impacts on mental and cognitive well-being
Aging Brain Health Cognitive Decline Climate Change Public Health
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