Wearing a mask is one of the important measures for epidemic prevention and control, but everyone should choose the appropriate type of mask. As the elderly who need to go out for medical treatment or shopping, what kind of masks are suitable?
N95 Respirators? Or Medical or Surgical Masks? Or Fabric Masks?
N95 respirators are tight-fitting and thus are capable of filtering at least 95 percent of airborne droplets and aerosols. According to scientific research, it is not recommended for the elderly to use protective masks such as N95 (except for fever clinics in medical institutions) because their airtightness is too strong, The breathing resistance is relatively large, and after long-term wearing, there may be symptoms of dyspnea such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing caused by hypoxia. In addition, the elderly with cardiovascular disease and respiratory disease should be more cautious.
Although cotton masks and sponge masks are considered to be extremely comfortable masks, they do not have the function of protecting against viruses, so they are not recommended. Tiny droplets can easily get inside through the pores of the fabric which makes it less useful than its other counterparts. If the elderly go to a high-risk environment such as a hospital, cloth masks or sponge masks cannot effectively protect us from the virus.
The elderly can choose disposable medical masks when they go out normally. These masks are made of two to three layers of breathable synthetic material that can filter airborne particles. If they are dirty, deformed, damaged, or smelly, they need to be replaced in time.
