Indoor window ventilation and anxiety symptoms among older adults with disabilities in China: A cross-sectional study

Although prior research indicated that indoor ventilation might have supported mental health in older adults, evidence remained scarce for those with disabilities, who represented a particularly vulnerable population. This study investigated the association between indoor window ventilation frequency and anxiety symptoms among older adults with disabilities in China using nationally representative data. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. Anxiety symptoms were assessed using a validated scale, and indoor window ventilation frequency was examined across multiple seasons. Multivariable linear regression models were used to evaluate associations. Frequent indoor window ventilation was significantly associated with lower anxiety symptoms. Compared with low frequency ventilation, medium (B = -0.651, 95% confidence interval = -1.119, -0.183) and high (B = -0.793, 95% confidence interval = -1.243, -0.342) frequency ventilation showed stronger protective effects. Seasonal ventilation patterns also demonstrated consistent negative associations with anxiety symptoms. This study added scientific value by identifying a low-cost, environmental strategy to alleviate anxiety in disabled older adults. Our findings called for greater policy attention to indoor ventilation practices, including public awareness campaigns and improvements to living environments to promote mental health in aging populations.