The interior is a highly complex environmental system and keeping the air inside as clean as possible is a goal for anyone who might have breathing problems, asthma or other lung diseases.   We put together some tips that might be of help when you are ready for clearing ( and cleaning ) out the air.  Check these out.

Avoid all scented soaps, shampoos, cologne, candles and sprays from the interior
 
Showers and showerheads can harbor loads of germs and bacteria so clean often or replace
 
Fireplaces give off irritating gases and sooty particulate matter so stay clear of all smoke
 
Avoid newly dry-cleaned garments and take them out of the plastic to let them air out
 
Seek out dry cleaners that use “green” environmentally sensitive cleaning agents
 
Pet are great but their dander has been shown to be a significant irritant
 
Cleaning products that contain bleach or ammonia are major irritants to breathing
 
Carpeting and area rugs can be a major source of dirt and dust so have them cleaned regularly
 
Regularly replace HVAC filters as forced air conditioning systems blow dust around 24/7
 
In the HVAC system, inspect the coils, duct and vents and keep them free of dust and bacteria
 
Consider a HVAC ultra-violet light (use a UV-C type only) in the system to kill air-born bacteria
 
Install HVAC high-merv filters of at least 9-12 but be sure the system is designed for the higher static pressure of better filtration
 
Install a dehumidifier to rid the environment of air-borne bacteria that comes with humdity
 
Use only paint and finishes that are free of VOCs – volatile organic compounds
 
Remove shoes when entering a home as they carry dirt and soil into the residence
 
Avoid brooms that “whisk” up the dirt into the air & consider using HEPA-style vacuum cleaners
 
Clean bathroom vent fans and the ventilation systems in the kitchen like above the cook-top
 
Certain kinds of plants are excellent being gas-absorbing and sucking up microbial particulates
 
Avoid whole-house interior fumigation for bug control. Consider natural repellants

We are always on the search for articles about "staying in place" or as others have called it... "aging in place."  And we are amazed at the number of magazines and newspapers that are writing about this concept,... particularly in the last 60 days or so. 

Perhaps the media is seeing that same things that our own DAASE members are seeing and that is the upcoming senior tsunami is rapidly approaching with the Baby Boomers now contemplating their future.  

So when we stumbled upon a video interview, we thought we should share that with you, our blog readers.  But first... here is a quote from the interview....

“She has this independent spirit and she’s really smart. I can see that she’s at this place in her life now where her independence means even more to her because she can feel she’s being physically challenged every day,” 

----Actress Susan Sarandon.

That quote reflects the conversations we see going on among many of our members and their clients.  And just like Susan... groups of families are now beginning to think about having to care for a mother or father, uncle, best friend or colleague as they age.  And planning to "stay in place" is the best plan for an independent future for these folks.  

Check out the video by clicking HERE !