The importance of light in elderly care homes - for comfort, health, and safety

Light as a care tool
Light is more than just illumination - it is a central part of the living environment that affects:
- Circadian rhythm and sleep quality
- Orientation and security
- Mood and comfort
- Visual conditions and risk of falling

How light affects the health of the elderly

Circadian rhythm and sleep
- Natural light regulates the body's internal clock
- Insufficient daylight can cause sleep disorders
- Blue light during the day increases alertness

Fall prevention
- Good lighting reduces the risk of falling
- Even light distribution without sharp contrasts
- Night lighting that does not disturb sleep

Cognitive function
- Sufficient light during the day improves concentration
- Reduces confusion in dementia
- Facilitates orientation in the environment

Practical solutions for a better lighting environment

Daylight and artificial lighting

Maximize daylight
- Lightweight curtains that let in light
- Place seating areas by windows
- Regular outdoor outings

Adapted artificial lighting
- Warm white light (2700-3000K) in the evening
- Cooler light (4000K+) during the day
- Adjustable brightness as needed

Safety lighting

Fall preventive lighting
- Automatic night lighting in corridors
- Sensor lights at toilets
- Even lighting without shadows

Guiding light
- Floor-level lighting in corridors
- Discreet light points at doors
- High contrast lighting at stairs

3. Special needs in dementia

Orientation through light
- Different light qualities in different rooms
- Sodium lamps for better contrast
- Marked light points at important places

Security lighting
- Dimmed light that does not create shadows
- Familiar light intensity from home
- Light that facilitates time orientation

Implementation in the elderly care home

Property owner's responsibility
- Conduct light surveys regularly
- Invest in adaptable lighting
- Ensure maintenance of existing lighting

The role of care staff
- Observe the light needs of each resident
- Adapt light according to circadian rhythm
- Report lighting deficiencies

Residents and relatives' participation
- Possibility for personal lamps
- Adjust brightness according to preferences
- Participate in the evaluation of the lighting environment

Reflection questions - Lighting

Care staff
- Which residents seem particularly sensitive to lighting conditions?
- How can we better use light in daily care?

Manager, nurse, occupational therapist and physiotherapist
- Which areas have the most significant lighting deficiencies?
- How can we prioritize light improvements?

Residents and relatives
- What type of light is most appreciated?
- Do you feel that the light affects the circadian rhythm?

Erland Olsson
Specialist nurse
Sofrosyne - Better care every day