Elderly people are quite susceptible to the health problems associated with mold and mildew

What is Mold?

Molds are fungi. Molds grow throughout the natural and built environment. Tiny particles of mold are present in indoor and outdoor air. In nature, molds help break down dead materials and can be found growing on soil, foods, plant matter, and other items. Molds produce microscopic cells called "spores" which are very tiny and spread easily through the air. Live spores act like seeds, forming new mold growths.

Who are the people that are most at risk?

There is wide variability in how different people are affected by indoor mold. However, the long term presence of indoor mold growth may eventually become unhealthy for anyone.

The following types of people may be affected more severely and sooner than others:

• Infants and children
• Elderly people
• Individuals with respiratory conditions or sensitivities such as allergies and asthma
• Persons having weakened immune systems (for example, people with HIV infection, chemotherapy patients, organ transplant recipients)       
   

Elderly People

Elderly people who live in care centers should be very aware that common molds like Stachybotrys, and Penicillium Aspergillus produce mycotoxins which are carried within floating microscopic mold spores in the air.  These spores can be inhaled by people with weak immune systems, and by the elderly, and cause serious health problems.  Care centers try very hard to sanitize all areas, but may not always know there is mold problem growing in an unseen place.  Mold can grow because of a roof leak, window leak, or any type of water intrusion like a pipe leak.  Care Centers should have quarterly air samples taken.  That way you will be assured that the air you breathe is pure and clean.

A Dr. Mold Certified Inspector can conduct a thorough inspection for mold in a unit on a 24 hour notice. He can inspect for leaks, water intrusion, any signs of mold that may cause problems down the line—and you receive a complete, concise report along with laboratory analysis^†.  We offer special pricing to property mangers. There are additional discounts available for continuing contracts.

† When samples are taken