Tips for Managing Fall Allergies
Many people look forward to the cooler weather, falling leaves, and other fall harbingers. It’s a good time for sipping hot cocoa, tea, or pumpkin spice lattes. It’s also the beginning of a new school year, time for the fall harvest, and the lead up to winter holidays. But, for some older adults, autumn isn’t quite so pleasant because it’s the time when they suffer from fall allergies. If your aging relative has fall allergies, there are ways you can help them to manage the symptoms. Below are some tips for doing just that.
Keep an Eye on Pollen Levels
Many weather reports include information about the day’s pollen levels. Keeping an eye on pollen levels can help you to decide when it’s better for your aging relative to stick to indoor activities. Pollen levels are usually higher in the morning, so it’s especially important to stay inside then. By staying indoors, the older adult’s exposure to allergens is reduced, which should also lessen symptoms.
Reduce Mold
Mold is a common allergy trigger in the fall. Unfortunately, it isn’t easy to completely avoid mold since it can grow anywhere there is moisture. However, it is possible to reduce the mold in your older family member’s environment. One way to do this is to keep leaves raked and cleaned up, rather than leaving piles of wet leaves on the senior’s lawn. Also, be sure to use bathroom fans to reduce moisture in the home. It may also be necessary to run a dehumidifier in the home to keep humidity below 60 percent.
Keep Windows Closed
When pollen counts are high, keep the windows and doors of the senior’s house closed to prevent pollen from getting inside. Instead, use air conditioning to cool the house. You can also reduce pollen in the home by using an air filter, especially in the bedroom. Vacuuming frequently will keep pollen from collecting on carpeting.
Remove Pollen Collectors at the Door
Shoes and clothing collect pollen when seniors are outdoors. To prevent tracking pollen throughout the house, the older adult should remove their shoes at the door. If they have been outside for a while, it may be a good idea to take a shower and wash their hair as well.
Elderly care can also help older adults to manage fall allergy symptoms. An elderly care provider can help the senior to monitor daily pollen levels. If levels are high, the elderly care provider can plan indoor activities to keep them occupied, such as tasks around the house, crafts, and other hobbies. Elderly care providers can also assist with cleaning the home to keep carpets and floors pollen-free.
If you or an aging loved one are considering elderly care in Keyport, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Lares Home Care 888-492-3538 or 732-566-1112.
Sources
https://www.everydayhealth.com/allergy/8-tips-for-fall-allergy-relief.aspx
https://acaai.org/news/fighting-fall-allergies-bring-it
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/in-depth/seasonal-allergies/art-20048343
