The Shocking Connection Between Indoor Air Quality and Cognitive Decline
Indoor air quality is often overlooked, but it has a significant impact on our health, particularly on cognitive functions. Recent studies have revealed a shocking connection between poor indoor air quality and cognitive decline, which can lead to serious health issues like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
### How Indoor Air Quality Affects Cognitive Health
Indoor air pollutants, such as particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can come from various sources including furniture, carpets, and household cleaning products. These pollutants can affect brain health by reducing cognitive performance and increasing the risk of neurological disorders. Long-term exposure to such pollutants can lead to faster cognitive decline in older adults and higher rates of psychiatric disorders across all ages[1][3].
### The Impact on Cognitive Performance
Research has shown that exposure to poor air quality impairs cognitive performance in both verbal and math tests. This effect becomes more pronounced as people age, especially for less educated individuals. Improving indoor air quality can significantly enhance cognitive abilities, potentially moving individuals from the median to higher percentiles in cognitive tests[3].
### Environmental Factors and Cognitive Decline
Environmental factors play a crucial role in cognitive health. Living near major roadways
