Research published in the Journal of Gerontology reveals a troubling connection between air pollution and cognitive decline in older adults.
The study found that people living in areas with the highest pollution levels consistently perform worse on cognitive tests than those breathing cleaner air.
This adds to the growing evidence that the tiny particles in polluted air don't just harm our respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
Scientists now say these particles may be capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier where they directly damage brain tissue, leading to cognitive decline.
You can't control the air pollution, of course. But that doesn’t mean you’re helpless.
In fact, there are several steps you can take to protect your brain health and preserve your independence as you age:Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home, especially in rooms where you spend the most timeCheck daily air quality reports and limit outdoor activities on high-pollution daysWhen exercising outdoors, choose parks and areas away from heavy trafficKeep windows closed on high air pollution days and when air quality warnings are issuedWhen you must be outside on days with poor air quality, consider wearing an N95 maskMaintain proper ventilation in your home and regularly replace air filtersConsider installing air quality monitors in your home to track indoor pollution levelsGet some air-purifying plants like spider plants and peace liliesAvoid creating indoor pollution by not smoking and limiting the use of candles and wood-burning fireplacesBut don’t stop with reducing your air pollution exposure. Beyond environmental precautions, you can also take steps to support and protect your brain health:Stay physically activeMaintain a diet rich in antioxidants, including colorful fruits and vegetablesStay mentally engaged through learning new skills and social interactionPrioritize quality sleepManage stress through meditation and relaxation techniquesStay hydrated and limit alcoholThis new research underscores that brain health is influenced by environmental factors, including the air we breathe.
Getting involved in advocating for cleaner air policies is a great way to help improve the air pollution in your community. But in the meantime, these simple strategies can support your brain health and help protect you against cognitive decline.
While we can't eliminate all environmental risks, taking control of what we can influence—from the air in our homes to the lifestyle choices we make—puts the power back in your hands to protect your most valuable asset... your mind.
Health and Happiness,
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
P.S. Natural fix dials DOWN pollution damage.
Source:
Giorgio Di Gessa, Mikaela Bloomberg, Rina So, Shaun Scholes, et al., Cognitive Performance and Long-term Exposure to Outdoor Air Pollution: Findings From the Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol Substudy of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA-HCAP), The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, Volume 80, Issue 5, May 2025, glaf060
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