Numerous studies have revealed that the majority of seniors prefer to age in place in their homes with ease and dignity, so it’s crucial to make sure their spaces are adaptable. One of the most crucial home safety features to keep in mind for seniors in their golden years of retirement, who intend to age in place is proper lighting.
This article discusses the benefits of having proper lighting in senior living apartments in Trail Creek Place, IN, as an example.
The Benefits of Proper Lighting for Seniors
The majority of us frequently ignore the lights in and around our homes. We turn them on or off and carry on with our daily activities. But for seniors, good lighting is one of the most crucial elements of a secure home.
What makes lighting so crucial? Research has shown that by the age of 65, one in three elderly people have “some form of vision-reducing eye disease,” such as macular degeneration, cataracts, or complications from diabetes. It can be very challenging to carry out necessary everyday tasks safely and confidently with vision issues. As a result, seniors may feel like they are losing their independence, which may add to depressive or anxious thoughts.
A dark home can also make it more likely that someone will face a serious accident. More than 2 million accidents involving seniors occur at home each year, according to studies; roughly one-third of all seniors experience falls each year, with 70% of those accidents taking place at home.
Important Points to Bear in Mind
Regardless of age, lighting is essential to our everyday lives. Usually, by the time we reach the age of 40, we need twice as much sunshine. We need three times as much sunshine when we’re 60. Age-related variations in eye shape can lead to vision issues. It is crucial to take the following factors into account when designing places for seniors:
- Indirect lighting creates a residential atmosphere and is gentler on older eyes.
- Seniors can use press buttons or slider dimmers more easily.
- Reading spaces should have at least 75 foot-candles of cool, adjustable shade.
- Lighting should be even and prevent black spots on walls or surfaces.
Falling Risks and Lighting
The lighting in senior living has a significant influence on one’s ability to stay upright and prevent falls. It might look like a minor aspect and is easily ignored at homes. Senior living apartments in Trail Creek Place, IN, places significant weightage to such minor aspects that can add on to resident’s health and wellbeing inside the retirement community.
Good lighting fosters greater freedom in areas created for seniors. Good natural lighting promotes physical and emotional health, increases socialization, and helps prevent falls. Glare must be eliminated because it can irritate the vulnerable, aging eye and cause migraines. In order for the eye to adapt and retain visual acuity, light levels must be developed. Another method of providing consistent lighting for the senior eye is the use of LED lighting in transitional and multi-use areas. Residents who use excellent lighting practices need fewer medications and have better-quality sleep.
