Exposure of Elderly People to Indoor Air Pollutants in Wanxia Nursing Home

Abstract

The elderly residing in nursing homes are typically more advanced in age, have more health issues, and spend more time indoors than other elderly people. This study explored the indoor air quality in the Wanxia nursing home, the largest private nursing home in Chengdu, China, based on long-term measurement data. Air pollutant sensors measured the level of air pollution in the Wanxia nursing home from March 2021 to February 2022. This study obtained several important results: (1) The indoor air quality index (IAQI) of the Wanxia nursing home was at a low pollution level in spring, summer, and autumn, and at a moderate pollution level in winter. PM concentration played the most important role in determining indoor air quality; (2) During winter, the 24 h mean indoor concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were close to or even exceeded the standard limits. During winter and summer nights, indoor CO2 levels were very close to or greater than 1000 ppm. During spring and summer nights, the indoor TVOC concentrations exceeded the limit (0.45 mg/m3); (3) Apart from HCHO concentrations in autumn, the levels of other indoor air pollutants were significantly influenced by their outdoor levels. In addition, the seasonal indoor/outdoor (I/O) ratios of CO2 and TVOCs exceeded 1; and (4) Indoor CO2 levels were closely related to indoor temperature (Ta) and relative humidity (RH) in each season. PM10 concentration correlated with Ta and RH in summer, while PM2.5 concentration did not correlate with Ta and RH in winter. The indoor TVOC level positively correlated with RH. Lastly, the indoor HCHO level was minimally influenced by changes in Ta and RH. Due to the above results, this study proposes targeted strategies for improving indoor air quality in nursing homes.