Air Pollution: A Pressing Threat to Functioning in the Older Adults.

This article discusses the impact of air pollution on functioning in older adults. The aging population, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, is at risk of experiencing age-related decline and disability. Air pollution, which is recognized as a major environmental threat to health, has been linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, and increased risks of chronic diseases that can contribute to functional decline. Studies have shown associations between air pollution exposure and dementia, as well as declines in physical functioning. While most research has focused on outdoor air pollution, indoor air pollution from sources such as cooking fuels also has detrimental effects. Mitigating air pollution is crucial for promoting healthy aging, and interventions such as air purification devices show promise in reducing indoor air pollutants. Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness of these interventions in improving functioning in older adults. [Extracted from the article]