Published by Illuminating Engineering Society
IES CG-1-09

As we age, even healthy eyes become more sensitive to glare – they require higher contrasts to see than they did when we were younger, as well as higher illumination levels. The need for higher light levels also means that control of sources of light is especially important. The recommendations included in this article are critically important if ocular diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy, affect one’s vision, or low vision aids are prescribed by an optometrist to maximize one’s remaining vision.

The combination of regular, comprehensive eye examinations and quality environmental lighting can enhance the visual experience and maintain productivity for a lifetime.

As we get older, nothing is more frustrating than not being able to see as well as we used to. An eye examination and new glasses can be a big help, but proper lighting is just as critical.

Whether seniors continue living in their own homes, or move to an apartment or retirement community, lighting is going to become an ever more important part of everyday life. It will add to comfort and enjoyment. And it will help keep seniors safe.

• Ambient lighting is general lighting in a room for walking around, conversation and identifying objects.
• Task lighting provides higher light levels in a specific area for performing visual tasks, such as reading sewing, and cutting.
• Accent light is used to highlight artwork or special architectural features.
• Daylight from windows and skylights can also provide ambient lighting, Due to the high light levels, some people also use daylight or direct sunlight for visual tasks such as mending or working on puzzles.
• Interior surfaces contribute to good lighting Lighter colors on ceiling and walls will reflect more light within a space. Dark colors absorb the light and should only be used on moldings or small areas. To better control glare, ceilings and walls should also have a flat finish paint or general areas and a matte finish for kitchens and bathrooms.

• Ambient lighting that is uniform within a room and from one room to another. Why? Because older eyes take longer to adjust to changes in light levels.
• Higher levels of light. Why? Because normal age-related changes within the eye restrict the light coming in and absorb the light — so more light is needed to compensate.
• Glare-Free light. Why? Light scatters within the eye causing an increased sensitivity to glare and the loss of the ability to see subtle details at lower light levels.
• Daylight from windows and skylights can also provide ambient lighting, Due to the high light levels, some people also use daylight or direct sunlight for visual tasks such as mending or working on puzzles.
• Lights that help you distinguish colors. The lens of the eye yellows with age, so proper lighting can help compensate.