A study published in Scientific Reports demonstrates that using an in-home HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) purifier for one month leads to a small but statistically significant improvement in brain function among adults aged 40 and older. The research involved 119 participants from Somerville, Massachusetts, a city with relatively high levels of traffic-related air pollution due to its proximity to major highways. Participants were randomly assigned to use either a genuine HEPA purifier or a sham purifier (which lacked the air-cleaning filter) for one month, with a month-long break between the two conditions.
The study found that participants aged 40 and older, comprising about 42% of the sample, completed a test measuring mental flexibility and executive function 12% faster after using the HEPA purifier compared to the sham purifier. This improvement persisted even after controlling for variables such as indoor time and perceived test stress. The authors note that while the cognitive enhancement may appear modest, it is comparable to the benefits derived from increased physical exercise and underscores the potential of HEPA purifiers in mitigating cognitive decline, particularly for older adults living in areas with high air pollution. The researchers plan further investigations to determine whether the observed cognitive benefits are linked to the preservation or restoration of brain white matter, which is adversely affected by particulate matter exposure.
Source: ScienceDaily - “HEPA air purifiers may boost brain function after just one month”