People often don’t realize that the air inside their home can be worse than the outside air. The EPA reports that indoor pollutants are often as much as five times higher than in the outside air. It’s important for your dad to learn about common indoor pollutants and how to clean the inside air. This can be done with the help of a senior care aide.
Choose Environmentally-Friendly Cleaners
Instead of using cleaners that contain chemicals, choose natural products. White vinegar is an excellent way to clean and disinfect many household surfaces, including counters and windows. Baking soda, salt, and lemon juice are also valuable products for cleaning without filling the air with chemicals.
Buy Plants
House plants help clean the air in a home. Plants feed on carbon dioxide and release oxygen during the day as part of photosynthesis. Having a few houseplants in main living areas is a good way to help remove carbon dioxide.
Herbs like basil, parsley, cilantro, thyme, and lavender can scent the home’s air. They also flavor foods without adding extra salt.
Use an Air Purifier
Use an air purifier to clean the air within the home. One that uses UV light to kill germs is a good choice. Make sure you choose an air purifier that has filters your dad can afford to replace as instructed. Some require filter changes each year, but others are replaced several times a year.
You may find it’s more cost-effective to purchase an air purifier that doesn’t require any filter changes. Some have a filter that you remove, wipe with a damp cloth, and air dry before reusing.
Clean Regularly
Surfaces within the home need to be wiped down daily with a sanitizing spray and cloth or paper towel. That helps remove bacteria and viruses. It also helps remove allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander.
Vacuum carpets and sweep and mop hardwood floors at least once a week. If your dad has pets, he may need the floors cleaned more often. Some older adults find a robotic vacuum or mop is a convenient way to clean on a schedule. You could also arrange to have someone clean his floors each week.
How Senior Care can Help
Does your dad have someone to help him keep his home clean of common allergens, viruses, and bacteria? Talk to him about the benefits of having caregivers from a senior care agency. Caregivers can clean his home, water his new plants, and help him remember when it’s time to clean or replace filters in his air purifier.
Learn more about senior care by making a call. A specialist can help you choose the right services and discuss pricing during your call.
Sources: https://www.epa.gov/report-environment/indoor-air-quality#
If you or a loved one are considering Senior Care Services near Hershey PA, contact the caring staff at Extended Family Care of Lancaster. Call today at (717) 205-2174.
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