The benefits of good lighting
We all need good lighting in our lives and as we get older, we need even more light. Generally, people aged 60 need three times more light than when they were aged 20 (according to the RNIB). Good lighting improves confidence and can give you greater independence.
Most people with a sight condition can benefit hugely from good lighting, so here are just a few of my top tips. Please be aware that as we are all different, there is no single lighting solution for everybody!
Natural light
Daylight has many health benefits, but also provides a great source of natural light. Sometimes it can cause glare, particularly if the light shines into your eyes, so think about using blinds. To maximise the use of daylight, keep your windows clean. It’s best to remove net curtains if you can, otherwise ensure they are clean and kept tied back when you need the light (as shown in the photo below).
Direct light onto what you’re doing
Task lamps are great, as they can be angled and moved to where you need the light. Think about adjusting the position of the lamp so that it is closer to your task.
The colour temperature of a bulb tells you how ‘warm’ or ‘cool’ the light that it emits is. Some people are better with brighter light, some people like it softer.
Avoid shadows
Consider whether you place yourself in a shadow when standing at kitchen work surfaces. Try under-cupboard lights (as the photo at the top of this page shows), to direct the light onto the work surface and keep a task lamp in the kitchen to help with trickier tasks.
Your top tip!
Some of my clients like to keep a torch on their keyring so that they can easily find the door lock.
By Hazel Kenney, Senior Rehabilitation Worker
Published February 2022.