You may have looked around recently and noticed everyone battling sneezing, runny noses, and itchy eyes. That’s no surprise because 25.7 percent of U.S. adults struggle with seasonal allergies, and 32 percent of older adults experience rhinitis symptoms each year (CDC). For St. Charles seniors, whose immune responses and lung function have often shifted with age, careful planning of outdoor time, managing home environments, and thoughtful treatments are key to staying comfortable all season long. Below are six evidence-based strategies, plus the top local tools, to help you or your loved ones breathe easier this spring.

1. Time Your Outdoor Activities

The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology found that pollen levels are lowest between 4 a.m. and noon and highest between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. (ACAAI Patient). To dodge peak pollen:

Take morning walks (ideally before 10 a.m.)
Early afternoon outdoor chores ending by 2 p.m.

2. Monitor Local Pollen in Real Time

Allergy Plus app: Free on iPhone and Android, it delivers location-specific allergy, air-quality, and weather forecasts; lets you set notifications for sudden pollen spikes; compare 5-day allergy and weather outlooks; and share alerts with family or caregivers.
Pollen.com: View side-by-side, 5-day risk levels (“Low”–“Very High”) to decide indoor vs. outdoor plans.

3. Create a Low-Allergen Home

Seal out pollen: Keep windows and doors closed on “High” or “Very High” pollen days; run your HVAC on “recirculate,” and make sure your HVAC filter is clean.
Install True HEPA filters: Certified HEPA filters capture 99.97 percent of particles down to 0.3 microns (dust, pollen, mold, bacteria). These air purifiers require some up-front investment and require you to change the filters periodically, but they can make a huge difference for allergy sufferers. Additionally, if you find the maintenance of these machines overwhelming, our in-home caregivers can help keep track of filters and replace them as needed. The Coway Air Mega is a top quality HEPA air purifier that needs much less frequent filter replacement than most other systems.
De-pollen routine: Shower and change clothes immediately after any outdoor activity to prevent bringing allergens indoors.

4. Gear Up Before You Step Outside

Pollen masks: Even a simple surgical or lightweight cloth mask cuts inhaled allergens significantly.
Wrap-around sunglasses: Shield eyes from airborne irritants.
Wide-brimmed hats: Stop pollen from settling in hair and on scalp.

5. Leverage Over-the-Counter Remedies

Non-sedating antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, loratadine) block histamine and reduce sneezing, itching, and runniness.
Nasal corticosteroid sprays shrink inflamed nasal passages—best when used daily, as directed.
Always discuss any new medication with a pharmacist or physician, especially if you’re on multiple prescriptions.

6. Consult an Allergist for Lasting Relief

If symptoms persist despite OTC measures, a board-certified allergist can perform skin or blood testing to identify specific triggers and recommend immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) for long-term improvement (ACAAI Patient).

Ready to breathe easier?

By combining smart scheduling, real-time monitoring, home filtration, protective gear, appropriate medications, and specialist care, St. Charles seniors can reclaim a symptom-free spring.

Contact Homewatch CareGivers of St. Charles today at 630-407-1379 or visit us online to learn how our trained caregivers can support your family this allergy season.