Study Links Indoor Temperature to Cognitive Health in Older Adults

Research finds that temperatures outside 68–75°F double the risk of attention difficulties for seniors, emphasizing the need for climate-resilient housing.

A year-long study of 47 adults aged 65 and older found cognitive performance was optimal when home temperatures stayed between 68–75°F (20–24°C).
Deviations of 7°F (4°C) in either direction significantly increased the likelihood of attention difficulties, with cold temperatures having a stronger negative effect than heat.
Older adults' reduced ability to regulate body temperature, compounded by chronic health conditions or medications, makes them particularly vulnerable to indoor climate variations.
The findings highlight the risks for low-income seniors who may lack resources to maintain optimal indoor temperatures, especially during extreme weather events.
Researchers call for public health policies, energy-efficient housing, and smart technologies to ensure temperature-controlled environments for aging populations.