Physiological and subjective responses in the elderly when using floor heating and air conditioning systems

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Thermal Physiology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Elderly individuals are more susceptible to thermal discomfort and physiological strain.
• Understanding the impact of heating and cooling systems on elderly thermal responses is crucial for maintaining well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of floor heating and air conditioning on the thermal responses and comfort of the elderly.
• To investigate age-related differences in thermal perception and physiological responses.

Main Methods:

• Eight elderly men and eight university students were exposed to three conditions: air conditioning (A), floor heating (F), and control (C) for 90 minutes.
• Measurements included rectal temperature, mean skin temperature, systolic blood pressure, and subjective thermal comfort ratings.
• Air and floor temperatures were systematically controlled for each condition.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in rectal or mean skin temperature were observed between floor heating (F) and air conditioning (A).
• Elderly participants experienced a significant increase in systolic blood pressure under the control (C) condition (15°C air temperature) compared to A and F.
• Subjective comfort ratings indicated a higher percentage of participants felt comfortable under floor heating (F) compared to air conditioning (A), though not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

• Floor heating systems offer comparable thermal responses and physiological strain to air conditioning for the elderly, even at lower air temperatures.
• Maintaining adequate peripheral and leg warmth is essential for elderly thermal comfort and preventing adverse physiological effects like increased blood pressure in colder environments.
• Targeted heating strategies are necessary for the elderly during winter to ensure comfort and safety.