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Low Cost Ways to Improve Lighting

As we age less light reaches the back of our eyes where we sense color and motion. The majority of seniors experience a reduction in depth perception making it difficult to judge the relative position of an object. On average an older person needs four times more light than a younger person.

A few ways to improve lighting in the home are:

1. Increase light levels by adding light sources and using brighter bulbs. It's best to use 100-watt but be sure not to exceed the wattage rating on lamps and lighting fixtures, since this can present a fire hazard.
   
   

2. Install multiple bulb fixtures and ensure that you have someone else get up on the ladder to replace burned out bulbs. Multiple bulbs will ensure you can wait until the next visit. Don't buy ceiling lights with bulb covers. Some of these covers are shaped like globes. You have to remove these globes before you can change the light bulb.
   
   

3. Lighting levels should be fairly consistent throughout the home. Individuals have a difficult time focusing when they move from light to dark and vice versa, especially those with vision impairments.
   
   

4. Make sure your lamp or light fixture is easy to clean. If your fixtures are dirty, they won't give you all the light you need. Be sure to clean them often.
   
   

5. Keep walkways and bathrooms well lit. Invest in several night-lights throughout the house, your bedroom, bathroom and hallways. Plug night lights are easy to install and readily available.
   
   

6. Utilize motion sensors to turn on lights as you enter a space. For example, motion sensor closet lights come on when entering the closet and turn off after you've left. Motion sensor light sockets add sensor capability to standard lamps. Motion sensor light kits are available from your local hardware or building supply store.
   
   

7. Make light switches more easily accessible in rooms. Make a clear path to the switch if it isn't right near the room entrance. It will be easier to turn on your lights if you use rocker switches. These switches are bigger than the skinny switches that you flip with your finger. You can turn them on and off with an elbow, a fist or a thumb. This is helpful when your hands are full. Consider installing glow-in-the-dark or illuminated switches.
   
   

8. Turn on the lights before going up or down stairs. This might require installing light switches at the top and bottom of stairs.
   
   

9. Place a lamp near your bed and sitting areas. Keep the lamp switch within reach consider wireless lighting controls. Before you buy a lamp, make sure its bulb is easy to change.
   
   

10. Store flashlights in easy-to-find places in case of power outages. In the bedroom near the bed and in other areas where the most time is spent (e.g. family room, kitchen, basement etc.).
    
    

11. Add reflective, non-slip tape on all non-carpeted stairs;
    
    

12. Avoid shiny surfaces, as they may cause a glare, and make it more difficult to see.
    

It is also a good idea to have ample lighting outside, especially on porches and walkways leading to one's home, as well as driveways and garages. Motion sensor flood lights are relatively inexpensive and also provide security.