Air Pollution Effects on the Elderly

Air pollution affects all members of society, but the effects are particularly felt by children and the elderly. The effects of air pollution include increased risk of cardiovascular disease, pulmonary diseases and reduced mobility and independence. Knowing the risks and impacts of air pollution is an important first step toward addressing public health concerns.

The Effects of Particulate Pollution

• Elderly patients with emphysema suffer whenever PM 2.5 emissions rise.

  The elderly are very susceptible to air pollution caused by microscopic particles. The fine particulate matter (called PM 2.5) causes a range of health problems, but the most severe is the increased risk of heart failure. Studies have found that days with increased levels of PM 2.5 are accompanied by higher hospital admissions of elderly patients with heart failure.

  PM 2.5 particles typically come from combustion sources, including automobiles, trucks and buses. These tiny particles are inhaled deeply into the lungs. They cause problems ranging from heart failure to aggravation of COPD symptoms to respiratory infections.

Ozone and Its Effects

• Exhaust from motor vehicles contributes greatly to NOx and ozone formation.

  Ozone is created from the reaction of emissions from internal combustion engines and volatile organic compounds in the air, combined with the presence of sunlight. Ozone is the principal component of smog. Ozone affects the elderly because it reduces lung function and aggravates airways.

  Ozone also aggravates asthma, increases susceptibility to pneumonia and can cause permanent lung damage. Elderly people with any health problems should stay indoor during periods of high smog levels. Naturally, this restricts the freedom of the elderly to move about during these times.

Nitrogen Oxides

• Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) are principally emitted by cars, trucks, buses, off-road equipment and power plants. These gases react with moisture, ammonia and other compounds to form small particles that can be inhaled deeply into the lungs.

  Elderly people with pulmonary disease and people with asthmatic conditions are particularly affected by NOx emission levels. Even short-term exposure to elevated levels of NOx can cause breathing problems, including asthma attacks, and generally cause increased visits to hospitals.

The Effects of Sulfur Dioxide Emissions

• Sulfur dioxide from power plant emissions affects millions and cost billions in health care.

  Sulfur dioxide is emitted from the combustion of sulfur-bearing fossil fuels, primarily diesel fuel and coal. Sulfur dioxide impacts the health of elderly persons in much the same way as fine particulate matter (PM 2.5). Sulfur from coal-burning power plants is the largest component of plant emissions.

  The EPA estimates that new standards implemented in 2010 for coal-burning plants will costs operators $1.5 billion over the next ten years yet save up to $33 billion in health care costs.