Lighting Techniques for Seniors

Specialized, energy-intensive lighting techniques can benefit seniors, according to the Lighting Research Center (LRC) at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York. Researchers at the LRC developed a set of

lighting principles for older adults and put them to the test at two assisted-living facilities. The results of the study, published by the AARP Andrus Foundation as a booklet titled “Lighting the Way: A Key to Independence,” show how specific techniques can help seniors retain independence, improve quality of life, and reduce risk of injury. According to the study, ambient light for seniors should be at least 300 lux (30 fc)—50% more than the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America recommends for the general population. Task lighting for seniors should not drop below 1000 lux (100 fc), three times the standard level. Additional strategies, such as minimizing glare, avoiding decorative finishes, and using dimmers, are also explained in the booklet, which is online at:

www.andrus.org/Independence/pdf/lighting_pdf/andruslighting.pdf.