A recent study has highlighted how indoor temperatures affect the cognitive performance of older adults. It found that extreme temperatures—both high and low—can significantly disrupt attention. This research tracked 47 seniors aged 65 and over, observing their home temperatures and how well they maintained focus throughout the day. The findings were shared in The Journal of Gerontology: Series A.
The sweet spot for attention seems to be a comfortable range of 68–75°F (20–24°C). When temperatures stray from this range, attention difficulties increased, particularly with just a 7°F (4°C) shift. This suggests that too hot or too cold can make it hard for seniors to focus.
Interestingly, the study found that older adults appear more sensitive to cold than heat. They experienced greater attention issues when they felt cold, even within a broader temperature range compared to when they felt hot.
To gather their data, participants used smartphones to report their feelings about temperature and attention levels twice daily. Smart sensors monitored the temperatures and humidity in their homes, providing real-time data. This approach allowed researchers to study the participants in their everyday environments over an extended period, a shift from the typical lab setting.
As climate change leads to more extreme weather, this research raises concerns for the elderly, who may struggle even more with cognitive tasks without comfortable indoor conditions.
“Understanding how indoor temperature affects cognitive health is vital for older adults,” said Amir Baniassadi, PhD, lead author of the study. He emphasized the need for public health measures and housing policies to ensure that homes remain climate-resilient for seniors. As temperatures rise globally, it will be crucial to provide stable, comfortable environments to protect their cognitive health.
These findings hold particular weight for low-income seniors who may lack the resources to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. Experts are advocating for smart home technologies that can help regulate temperatures, highlighting the importance of creating supportive living spaces for older adults.
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