Why Mould and Damp Are Especially Dangerous for Elderly People

Problems with mould and damp in the home aren’t just unsightly; they can be very bad for your health, especially for older people. As we get older, our immune systems weaken, leaving us more open to external threats. For older people, being around mould and damp places for a long time can lead to a number of health problems that greatly reduce their quality of life.

Mould and Damp are hidden dangers for the Elderly

Mould grows best in damp places with little air flow. If you breathe in mould spores for a long time, they can be harmful. For older people, who are often more sensitive to changes in their surroundings, these spores can cause or make breathing problems worse, like asthma, bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In the worst cases, being exposed to mould could cause major illnesses or allergic reactions.

Also, damp places can make breathing worse by making it more likely for bacteria to grow and making it easy for dust mites to live. It’s possible that these extra risks will make the health and well-being of older people who already have long-term illnesses much worse.

Why are Older Adults more Likely to get Hurt?

People over the age of 65 are more likely to get sick from mould and water damage than younger people. Changes that come with getting older, like a weaker immune system and smaller lungs, make it harder for the body to fight off infections and illnesses. There are also more chances for mould and damp conditions to spread to older people because they spend more time indoors. People who already have health problems like diabetes or heart disease may be more at risk.

Health Impacts of Mould and Damp on Older Adults

A lot of older people can get sick from being around mould and damp places for a long time. Some of these health problems are:

• Trouble Breathing: Mould spores can irritate the lungs of people with asthma or COPD, making it harder for them to breathe.
• Weakened Immune Systems: Older people can get sick more easily when they are exposed to allergens and germs for a long time.
• Increased Risk of Falls: Surfaces that are wet and slippery are more likely to cause falls, which is a big worry for older people.
• Problems with mental health: It can make anxiety and sadness worse to live in a damp and musty space, especially for people who are already sick or lonely.

Preventing Mould and Damp in Elderly Living Spaces

Mould and damp problems need to be fixed right away to protect the health of elderly family members. The following things need to be done:

• Improve ventilation: To get enough breeze, use extractor fans and open windows often.
• Fix Leaks: If you don’t want water to build up, fix any roof or plumbing leaks right away.
• Keep an eye on the humidity levels. To keep the humidity inside below 60%, use a dehumidifier.
• Clean Often: Wipe down wet surfaces and use mould-safe cleaning products.
• Get help from a professional: Talking to professionals is the best way to find and fix the root cause of long-lasting issues.

Legal Rights of Senior Renters

Senior renters have the right to a safe and healthy place to live. Landlords are required by law to keep their properties free of mould and wetness, especially when these conditions pose a health risk. If a landlord doesn’t fix the problem or pay the rent, the tenants can sue the owner for damages.

Don’t Let Mould and Damp Go Unchecked

Mould and dampness are very bad for your health, especially if you are older. If you or someone you care about is living in a way that could hurt their health, you need to move right away. SilverOak Solicitors’ main job is to help renters file claims for damage to their rental homes and get the money they are owed.

Call us at 020 8578 7778 for a free assessment and to start making your home healthier and safer.