How to Protect the Elderly

Swimming pool chemicals are used to balance total alkalinity and maintain pool water balance. However, they can contribute to a muriatic acid swimming pool and also cause unwanted side effects such as irritating the eyes and skin and even turning blonde and gray hair green. Fumes from pool chemicals can irritate the lungs, throat, and nasal passages.

The elderly population is especially at risk for experiencing unwanted side effects from pool chemicals so it’s important to limit their exposure as much as possible. Our next series of articles will cover some ways to help protect the elderly from the unwanted side effects of pool chemicals.

Shower Before Entering the Pool

Encourage everyone, especially elderly adults, to shower before entering a swimming pool. This will help remove any dirt, sweat, or makeup that could potentially react with the pool water or chemicals.

Rinse Off Thoroughly Afterwards

Taking a shower after swimming will help remove any residual chlorine or other chemicals from skin and hair.

Don’t Enter Swimming Pool Right After Chemicals Are Added

Waiting to swim after pool chemicals are added is another way to reduce potential side effects for people of any age. Be sure to allow enough time for chemicals to dilute. Wait at least one hour after adding chemicals that balance total alkalinity or are used for pool pH control and any algaecides, clarifiers, or stabilizers. Wait at least 24 hours after “shocking” the pool with a heavy dose of chlorine.

Our next article will cover more ways to protect the elderly population from potential side effects of pool chemicals.

If you want to reduce the need for chemicals all together, then consider incorporating Clearwater Pool Systems (CPS) into your pool. This revolutionary system offers a cost-effective way to combat the health risks associated with chlorine and a muriatic acid swimming pool. CPS helps you maintain pool water balance and pool pH control / balance total alkalinity while reducing the overall amount of chemicals you use on a regular basis:

pHPure™ – a CO₂ injection for pools

MineralPURE® – a pool ionization system

OzoneMAX™ – an ultraviolet ozone system

Homeowners and operators of community pools and water parks throughout the world utilize CPS to help maintain pool pH control and balance total alkalinity. Homeowners can order residential models online at Home Depot. If you operate a commercial pool, please connect with the authorized dealer nearest to you or e-mail us at sales@clearwaterenviro.com.