Pounding the rugs literally beats the critters to death, whereas wall-to-wall carpeting is an easy place for dust mites to hide. Lockey says it’s not a good idea for older people to get rid of carpeting in favor of wood or linoleum. He points out older people have to be much more leery of falling onto a hard floor, where they are more likely to break something. “Carpeting increases safety so I don’t get as vigorous taking it away from 80- year-olds. I can control the allergy. Why should they get hurt if they fall?”

Allergy-fighting medicines tend to make people drowsy, leading to accidents. “I wouldn’t recommend an over-the-counter (OTC) drug like Benadryl,” Lockey says. (Its generic is diphenhydramine.) He prefers certain prescription drugs like Clarinex, Allegra, or Flonase, or the OTC drug, Claritin.

Russell urges caution before shopping. “It is always best for anyone, especially someone older, to check with their doctor before taking any medication,” especially since people age 62-plus are more likely to be taking multiple medications.

Animal hair is another major indoor allergen. Whether you keep a pet or one visits, watch out. Make sure the animal stays out of the bedroom. That’s the environment you want to keep the most allergen-free, if you have to choose.

Watch out for mold, too. Most people clean carefully in the bathroom, where we see it most often. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) also recommends keeping humidity below 50 percent to decrease mold growth. Avoid humidifiers, especially in already warm environments.

If you are constantly congested, it may be time to consult a professional allergist. Check with your primary care physician—or if you’re a resident of a community built and managed by Erickson— the Erickson HealthSM team can guide you.