Study reveals optimal home temperature for elderly brain health

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A study found a link between home indoor temperatures and mental performance in seniors, showing that extremely hot or cold temperatures can increase attention problems in certain age groups. The study tracked 47 older adults, aged 65 or older, living in their communities, monitoring their home temperatures and their self-reported ability to stay focused throughout the day. The results were published in The Journal of Gerontology: Series A.

A study found that older adults showed the least trouble keeping their attention when their homes were kept between 68-75°F (20-24°C), which helps them stay focused best. Outside of this comfortable temperature range, doubled the chances of attention problems when the temperature went up or down just 7°F (4°C). This is consistent with research that shows attention decreases when rooms are too hot or too cold.

While both hot and cold conditions affected attention, it was clear that participants were especially sensitive to cold temperatures. The study's results showed an imbalance in how people respond to temperature changes. When people reported feeling cold, they encountered more cognitive challenges over a broader range of actual temperatures than when they felt hot.

Participants filled out smartphone surveys two times a day, reporting how hot they felt and their state of attention. The research team used sensors in the participants' main living areas to continuously keep track of temperature and humidity levels. This study broke new ground by studying individuals in their everyday home environments over an extended period. Many previous studies investigated the impact of temperature on mental function in controlled laboratory settings.

Research indicates that as climate change causes more severe temperature swings, older adults may experience heightened cognitive difficulties unless their indoor environments are properly maintained.

according to SciTechDaily "This research highlights the urgent need for public health initiatives and housing policies that put climate resilience first for older adults," said Baniassadi. "As the globe gets warmer, providing access to air-conditioned spaces will be essential for preserving their mental health," Baniassadi noted, making it necessary to upgrade housing structures and develop affordable ways to cool environments.

The results of the study have serious implications for low-income and underserved individuals, who often have limited resources to control the temperature at home. Given this situation, experts are urging the creation and use of smart homes to maintain a comfortable temperature in living areas, highlighting the importance of taking proactive steps to ensure a stable indoor environment for seniors.

This article was written in collaboration with generative AI company Alchemiq.