**Boise Baths: City Chlorine Burning Senior Brains?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe tap water in Boise, Idaho might be doing more than just quenching your thirst. For many seniors in the Treasure Valley, the long-term effects of chlorine exposure from municipal water and public pools are a growing concern. It’s time to dive deep into this issue and explore practical solutions for protecting your cognitive health right here in Boise.
Chlorine, while effective at disinfecting water, isn’t without its drawbacks. Studies suggest a potential link between prolonged exposure to chlorinated water and cognitive decline, especially in older adults. This isn’t about scare tactics; it’s about informed choices and proactive measures.
Boise gets its water from both surface and groundwater sources. The City of Boise adds chlorine to disinfect this water, ensuring it’s safe from harmful bacteria and viruses. While the levels are regulated, cumulative exposure over decades can be a concern.
Let’s look at the numbers. The EPA sets a maximum residual disinfectant level (MRDL) for chlorine in drinking water at 4 parts per million (ppm). Boise’s water quality reports generally show chlorine levels well below this limit, often around 1-2 ppm. However, these are averages. Levels can fluctuate, and even low levels, consumed daily over many years, can add up.
The real problem isn’t just drinking water. Boise’s public pools, while a great way to stay active, are heavily chlorinated. Frequent swimming, especially for seniors who may spend significant time in the water for therapy or recreation, increases exposure.
So, what can Boise residents do? The good news is that there are several readily available and affordable solutions.
First, filtration is key. A simple pitcher filter with an activated carbon filter can significantly reduce chlorine levels in your drinking water. Brands like Brita and PUR are widely available at local stores like Fred Meyer and Walmart. These are a good starting point for apartment dwellers or those on a budget.
However, for more comprehensive filtration, consider a whole-house water filter. These systems, installed at your main water line, filter all the water entering your home. This protects you not only from chlorine in your drinking water but also from chlorine absorbed through your skin while showering or bathing.
A whole-house filter can be a bigger investment, ranging from $300 to $1000 or more, plus installation. But think of it as an investment in your long-term health. Look for systems with activated carbon or catalytic carbon filters, which are particularly effective at removing chlorine and chloramine (another disinfectant sometimes used).
For Boise homeowners, consider brands like Aquasana or Springwell. These systems are readily available online and often come with installation guides or can be installed by a local plumber. Don’t skimp on the filter quality; cheaper filters may not remove chlorine effectively.
Apartment dwellers aren’t left out. A shower filter is an easy and affordable way to reduce chlorine exposure while showering. These filters attach directly to your showerhead and can be installed in minutes. Look for shower filters with KDF-55 media, which is effective at removing chlorine and other contaminants.
Another often overlooked source of chlorine exposure is cooking. When you boil water for pasta or use tap water in soups and sauces, chlorine can be released into the air and inhaled. Always use filtered water for cooking, especially when boiling water.
Beyond filtration, lifestyle adjustments can also make a difference.
- Reduce shower time: Shorter showers mean less chlorine absorbed through your skin.
- Swim smart: If you’re a regular at the Boise YMCA or other public pools, shower immediately after swimming to remove chlorine from your skin. Consider using a chlorine-neutralizing body wash.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps your body flush out toxins, including chlorine. But make sure it’s filtered water!
One common mistake people make is assuming that boiling water removes chlorine. While boiling can reduce some chlorine, it’s not a reliable method, and it can actually concentrate other contaminants. Filtration is the most effective way to remove chlorine from your water.
Another pitfall is neglecting to replace filter cartridges regularly. Filters become less effective over time as they become saturated with contaminants. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for filter replacement to ensure optimal performance.
Let’s talk about Boise’s specific water quality. The City of Boise publishes annual water quality reports that are available online. These reports provide detailed information about the levels of various contaminants in the city’s water supply, including chlorine. Reviewing these reports can give you a better understanding of your potential exposure.
However, remember that these reports represent city-wide averages. Chlorine levels can vary depending on your location within Boise and the time of year. If you’re concerned about the chlorine levels in your specific area, you can contact the City of Boise Water Quality Department to request more localized data.
For seniors in Boise, the potential cognitive health risks associated with prolonged chlorine exposure are a real concern. But by taking proactive steps to filter your water, adjust your lifestyle, and stay informed about Boise’s water quality, you can significantly reduce your exposure and protect your cognitive health for years to come. Don’t wait; start implementing these changes today. Your brain will thank you.