Source: FollowTheseInstructions
Getting the right lighting is crucial for older people, according to charity researchers.
Sight loss charity Thomas Pocklington Trust and Research Institute for Consumer Affairs (Rica) suggest focussing on lumen output rather than wattages when purchasing new lighting.
In an updated guide on buying energy saving lamps, the charities recommend using at least a 1,200 lumen lamps on staircases, as a brighter light will minimise the chance of missing a step. Up to 250 lumen lamps are recommended when fitted under kitchen cabinets.
The guide, Choosing energy saving light bulbs for your home, comes with Best Buy recommendations from Which? that assessed energy savings lamps for brightness and start-up speed. It has information about lamp types, colour, start-up times and types of fittings.
"Older people and people with sight loss can gain useful advice from our updated guide, which explains which bulbs to buy for different areas of the home, for different levels of lighting and for a quick delivery of the light that's needed," explained Sarah Buchanan, research director for Thomas Pocklington.
"We know from research that having the right lighting dramatically improves the lives of people with sight loss, and supports and enhances their independence in their own homes."
The Thomas Pocklington Trust has also launched another guide, this time working with researchers at Stirling University. Best practice in the design of homes and living spaces for people living with dementia and sight loss outlines practical steps that can be taken in homes (private or care homes), with a section focussed solely on lighting and how to light for the elderly.
Good lighting is particularly important for people with dementia, as poor lighting can give rise to anxiety because of the difficulty in working things out.
The guide makes a number of practical suggestions for lighting, such as avoiding direct lighting over beds, which can be uncomfortable for people resting.
It states that good lighting can make the most of people's capabilities and help to compensate for poor eyesight. Maximising the use of natural light is also a key point to consider.
Lighting will publish an extended feature on designing for people with dementia in its July issue.
