Many seniors love the feeling of a cool breeze when sleeping, especially during hot nights. However, maintaining a fan pointed directly at the face while sleeping may do more harm than good — especially for older people.
As we are old, our skin and mucous membranes become more sensitive. Constant airflow from a fan can alleviate the nasal passages, throat, and eyes, causing irritation, nosebleeds, dry cough, or even sinus issues. Seniors are particularly accessible to these effects because of reduced tear and mucus production.
Sleeping with a fan blowing on your face or body can cause muscles to burden, especially in the neck and shoulders. The cool air may cause rigidity or soreness upon waking — a popular complaint among older adults with joint or muscle problems.
Cold air blowing directly onto the face at night can spark or aggravate respiratory problems like asthma or chronic bronchitis. For seniors who already have lessened lungs or negotiated immune systems, this could lead to difficulty breathing or chest discomfort.