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Environmental Fact Sheets For Older Adults Available in 11 Languages

Release Date: 09/19/2007
Contact Information: Enesta Jones, (202) 564-4355 / [email protected]

(9/19/07) As the U.S. population continues to become more diverse, EPA is taking steps to inform minority older adults and their caregivers about simple actions they can take to reduce environmental health hazards. EPA's Aging Initiative has developed six fact sheets on the health impacts of air pollution, water contaminants, pesticides, and extreme heat on the most common chronic health conditions that can be worsened by environmental contaminants.

The fact sheets outline simple preventative steps to reduce exposure to environmental hazards and have been translated into 11 languages including Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Haitian Creole, Italian, French, Arabic, Russian and Vietnamese. The fact sheets address chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, asthma, as well as health issues that can arise from exposure to environmental hazards such as drinking water contaminants or pesticides. They are:

“It’s Too Darn Hot: Planning for Excessive Heat Events” describes ways for older adults to reduce exposure to excessive heat and measures local governments can take to prepare for periods of excessive heat.

“Environmental Hazards Weigh Heavy on the Heart” describes the environmental hazards that can worsen these diseases, including indoor and outdoor air pollution, smoke from tobacco, household products, extreme heat, and lead and arsenic in drinking water.

“Age Healthier, Breathe Easier” outlines simple steps that older adults with respiratory diseases can take to reduce and control the frequency of their symptoms.

“Safe Steps to Rid Your Home and Garden of Pests” discusses responsible pesticide use across generations. Older adults who may be more susceptible to the effects of pesticide exposure can also play an important role in keeping grandchildren safe from pesticides.

“Water Works" discusses water contaminants such as microbes, lead and arsenic and what to do after a flood.

"Diabetes and Environmental Hazards" describes how exposure to environmental hazards, such as air pollution and extreme heat can worsen the health of persons living with diabetes.

Read the translated fact sheets: epa.gov/aging/resources/factsheets/index.htm

You may also place an order by sending an email with your mailing address to [email protected]