Good Air for a Good Life in Old Age

Air pollution is one of the greatest health risks of our time. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately seven million people worldwide die each year as a result of polluted air. Vulnerable groups such as children, people with pre-existing conditions – and older adults – are particularly at risk.

Photo: Harli Marten

Why? The Danger of Air Pollution for Seniors

• As we age, the immune system weakens, and the lungs lose elasticity. According to a publication by the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the immune system’s ability to fight infections and inflammation decreases with age. This makes older adults more susceptible to diseases, especially those triggered by environmental factors like air pollution.
• Additionally, a study by the American Lung Association shows that lung function declines with age as the elasticity of lung tissue decreases, making airways more vulnerable to irritants. These physiological changes increase the risk of respiratory diseases and exacerbate the effects of pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen oxides (NO2).
• Older adults are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of air pollution. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) can cause respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and even dementia. A systematic review in BMC Public Health shows that chronic exposure to higher concentrations of air pollutants like PM2.5 and NO2 is associated with cognitive impairments and the development of dementia in old age. The study highlights that these pollutants can promote neurodegenerative diseases by triggering inflammation and structural changes in the brain.
• As highlighted by the German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt), fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause inflammation, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are also suspected of impairing lung function and worsening chronic conditions such as COPD. Older adults are particularly at risk in cities where pollution from traffic and industry is high.
• A study by the National Library of Medicine (NLM) shows that long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is significantly associated with an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. The study examined a cohort of 18.9 million older adults in the U.S. and found that an increase in PM2.5 levels by 10 µg/m³ raised the risk of lung cancer by up to 33%.

These findings underscore the importance of measures to improve air quality, especially in urban areas.

Photo: Huy Phan

At the same time, many seniors spend a significant amount of their time indoors, such as in shopping centers, where air quality is often poor. This can lead to feelings of discomfort and significantly impact their quality of life.

“What Matters”

Air quality and quality of life: These are key topics for the 14th German Senior Day (14. Deutscher Seniorentag)! This event, taking place from April 2 to 4, 2025, in Mannheim, focuses on how to ensure a good life in old age. Under the motto “What Matters”, discussions will center on health as a crucial factor. Good air quality is an essential part of this, as it contributes not only to physical health but also to overall well-being

“It really makes you feel so much better”: How Clean Air Supports Seniors

An example of how clean air can improve quality of life can be seen at the Forum Köpenick in Berlin, where CityBreeze air filters with moss technology have been installed. (Read more in the blog: “CityBreeze at Forum Köpenick: Breathe Easy”.)

An older woman shared her enthusiasm with our CEO, Peter Sänger:

“I usually shop at other malls, but the air there is so stuffy that I don’t want to stay long. It’s great that you’re using moss here to create fresh air – it really makes you feel so much better.”

This feedback highlights how important it is to ensure good air quality in urban spaces – not just for health but also for overall well-being.

Photos: GCS

Why Good Air Quality Is So Important for Seniors

A good life in old age means not only social participation and mobility but also health. Studies show that clean air reduces the risk of chronic diseases and improves quality of life. According to a study published in Lancet Public Health, reducing fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is significantly associated with increased life expectancy in urban areas. The study emphasizes that even at relatively low PM2.5 concentrations (<30 µg/m³), improving air quality can positively impact mortality rates and life expectancy.

In urban areas, where older adults often rely on public transportation and walkable facilities, good air quality is particularly crucial.

But how can we sustainably improve air quality in cities? This is where natural solutions come into play.

Natural Solutions for Urban Challenges

Innovative and smart moss filters like the CityBreeze combine cutting-edge technology with the natural filtering power of moss. Mosses are true wonders of nature: they can filter pollutants from the air while producing oxygen. According to a study by the University of Bonn, mosses can bind up to 20 times more fine particulate matter than conventional plants. Researchers emphasize that the large surface area of moss leaves and their electrostatic charge play a key role in capturing fine particulate matter. In our multifunctional designs, the natural abilities of air filtration and cooling are enhanced with modern technology to sustainably improve air quality in cities.

The benefits of modular moss filters are diverse:

• Health Benefits: Clean air reduces the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, especially for older adults.
• Economic Benefits: Better air quality can increase dwell time and well-being in shopping centers and public spaces, positively impacting retail.
• Sustainability: Moss filters are an eco-friendly alternative to conventional air purification systems and actively contribute to combating climate change.

Mannheim and Moss Filters: A Look Back at BUGA 2023

From our perspective, this year’s venue, Mannheim, is a fitting place to discuss the health and future of older adults. In 2023, a CityBreeze was in use in Mannheim, providing visitors to the Smart City Experience Space at the Federal Garden Show (BUGA) with fresh air and a pleasant microclimate. Our various projects have demonstrated how natural solutions can be successfully implemented in different urban contexts.

Photos: GCS

Good Air for a Good Life in Old Age

The 14th German Senior Day (14. Deutscher Seniorentag) in Mannheim raises the question of what truly matters in old age. Health and well-being play a central role – and so does the air we breathe.

Clean air is not just an environmental issue but also a matter of quality of life.
Clean air is not a luxury but a necessity – especially for older adults.

Would you like to learn more about our moss filter solutions or discuss how we can improve air quality together? Feel free to contact us – we look forward to hearing from you!

Photos: GCS