What indoor air quality has to do with the immune system

The air we breathe every day has a greater impact on our health than many people realize. Indoor air quality plays a key role, especially in care and healthcare facilities where people with weakened immune systems live or work.

Good indoor air quality isn't just pleasant—it's a prerequisite for well-being, concentration, and a strong immune system. But what exactly does "good air quality" mean? And what is the connection between indoor climate and the immune system?

The Underestimated Importance of the Air That Surrounds Us

Humans breathe in approximately 12,000 liters of air every day. Each of these breathing movements affects the body – whether positively or negatively. Indoors, especially in facilities with high levels of occupancy, the air can be polluted by various factors:

• Lack of fresh air supply

• Dry, heated air

• Fine dust particles, pollen, or microorganisms

• Emissions from cleaning products or building materials

• Odors that affect well-being

These pollutants have a direct impact on the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and respiratory tract – the immune system's first line of defense.

How poor indoor air weakens the immune system

Dry or polluted air can impair the body's natural defenses. If the mucous membranes are dry, they can no longer fully fulfill their protective function, making it easier for viruses and bacteria to penetrate the body.

The consequences of poor indoor air quality can include:

• Respiratory tract irritation

• Dry eyes and mucous membranes

• Increased susceptibility to infections

• Fatigue and lack of concentration

• Headaches or malaise

In nursing facilities, this affects not only the residents but also the nursing staff, who spend many hours in the same rooms every day. Healthy indoor air thus supports the entire immune system of the facility – literally.

Good indoor air strengthens defenses and well-being

Balanced indoor air plays a crucial role in helping the body regenerate and maintaining a stable immune system. Important factors for healthy air quality include:

1. Adequate humidity – Ideal values ​​between 40 and 60% keep mucous membranes moist and ready to defend themselves.

2. Regular air exchange – Fresh air reduces pollutants, germs, and CO₂ in enclosed spaces.

3. Reduction of odors and pollutants – A clean, odor-free environment supports a subjective sense of well-being and reduces stress.

4. Natural fragrances in moderate doses – Pleasant, subtle scents can enhance well-being and promote a feeling of freshness and purity.

This creates an indoor climate that strengthens both body and mind.

The Role of Professional Fragrance and Air Concepts

In care and healthcare facilities, simple ventilation is often not enough to ensure consistently good air quality.

Professional fragrance and air systems such as the reimacare AromaStreamer® devices can help actively improve indoor air quality:

• Cold misting evenly enriches the air with microfine particles – completely without residue.

• Odor absorbers neutralize unpleasant or offensive odors.

• Natural fragrance compositions promote a pleasant, calming atmosphere.

The result is a fresh, hygienic, and harmonious indoor climate that promotes well-being and indirectly contributes to strengthening the body's immune system.

Scientific Background: How Smells Affect the Immune System

Studies show that pleasant smells and clean indoor air also have a psychological effect: If a scent is perceived as positive, the body's stress levels decrease – and with them, the release of stress hormones such as cortisol.

A low cortisol level, in turn, supports the function of the immune system. Thus, pleasant, hygienic indoor air can contribute to greater resilience through both physical and emotional processes.

This connection is particularly important in nursing facilities, where people rely on special care: Clean, soothing air conveys security, calm, and trust – important factors for recovery and quality of life.

Conclusion: Good air is active health care

High indoor air quality is not a luxury, but a central component of modern care and healthcare concepts. It protects the respiratory tract, strengthens the immune system, and ensures greater well-being in everyday life – for residents and patients as well as for employees.

With reimacare's professional fragrance and air systems, you can create spaces where hygiene, atmosphere, and health are in harmony.

Because good air strengthens the immune system – and creates spaces where you can truly feel good.