Therapeutic lighting design for the elderly: a review (original) (raw)

Aims: Research suggests that specialised lighting design is essential to cater for the elderly users of a building because of reduced visual performance with increased age. This review aims to document what is known of the physical and psychological aspects of lighting and their role in promoting a healthy and safe environment for the elderly. Methods: A methodical review was carried out of published literature on the physical and psychological impacts of light on the elderly. Design standards and guides from professional organizations were evaluated to identify synergies and gaps between the evidence base and current practice. Results: Lighting has been identified as a significant environmental attribute responsible for promoting physical and mental health of the elderly. The evidence related to visual performance was found to be robust. However, guides and standards appeared to have focused mostly on illumination requirements for specific tasks and have lacked detailed guidelines ...