Every month, we’re sharing the notable work that our director of advocacy and IIN graduate, Darrell Rogers, is doing in Washington, D.C., to increase the visibility and recognition of Health Coaches.
Home – a sacred place where we can relax and unwind, share meals with loved ones, and create memories. Now that many of us are home for the foreseeable future, our homes have turned into offices, classrooms, workout spaces, and more.
As we think about the increased time we will spend in our homes, it’s important to consider how our home environment will potentially impact our health.
Earlier this month, IIN attended meetings with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Congressional staff, researchers, and home builders to look for immediate and long-term solutions to the needs of military families and the homes they live in, as a recent survey showed that more than half of families reported a “negative” or “very negative” opinion of their living conditions – military families often live in homes provided by private companies on military bases. Some of the major concerns were mold, lead, and water quality.
While many of the issues discussed require systemic change, IIN’s work in educating and helping assist those impacted is vital. During the meetings, Darrell shared content from IIN’s Health Coach Training Program, including a list of tips that can certainly be applied to taking care of our own homes today:
- Reduce the use of chemical cleaners.*
- Store paints and chemicals outside.
- Use metal and glass for food storage, not plastic.
- Take off shoes and open windows.
- Use EWG's guides to locate safer home and personal care products.
- Cook with stainless steel or cast-iron pans.
- Use wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets.
- Buy plants.
- Dust and vacuum often as dust is a chemical magnet.
- Replace filters regularly.
- Check for mildew, moisture, and mold on a regular basis.
*Using cleaning products containing chemicals may be necessary during pandemics but is a personal choice.
We know how valuable Health Coaches can be in the healthcare system to help bridge the gap between doctors and patients and provide the support and resources patients need to reach their health goals. IIN is committed to the success of every graduate making a difference in their communities, and this advocacy work aims to further support our graduates in all that they do.
Darrell Rogers began his career in Washington, D.C., twenty years ago and has worked for members of Congress and several notable nonprofit organizations and political campaigns. More recently, his work has been committed to protecting and promoting holistic healthcare access.
Published: June 8, 2024
Updated: November 6, 2024
