Designing a home to age in place means creating a space that is safe, comfortable, and accessible for a lifetime. One of the most critical elements of this design is lighting. As we get older, our eyes require more light to see clearly, making a thoughtful interior lighting design essential for preventing falls and enhancing independence. Here are four key tips to illuminate your home for safety and comfort. Shop Shelby Design Center in Shelby Township today!
Lighting for Aging in Place: How to Design for Safety and Comfort
Lighting for Aging in Place: How to Design for Safety and Comfort
Increase Overall Ambient Light
The foundation of a safe home is bright, even illumination. Dark corners and shadows can hide hazards. Upgrade your main ceiling fixtures to provide more overall ambient light. Consider powerful flush mounts, recessed cans, or a ceiling fan with a bright light kit. This foundational layer of interior lighting makes navigating every room easier and safer.
Add High-Contrast Task Lighting
From reading prescriptions to chopping vegetables, daily tasks require focused light. Install under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen, place bright, adjustable lamps by reading chairs and bedsides, and ensure bathroom vanities are well-lit. Good task lighting reduces eye strain and increases precision, which is crucial for safety during detailed activities.
Illuminate Pathways and Entrances
Most falls happen in transitional spaces or during the night. Install low-level night lights in hallways, bedrooms, and bathrooms—motion-activated ones are an excellent choice. Ensure stairways are equipped with step lights and that entryways are brightly lit. Your exterior lighting is just as important; well-lit paths from the car to the door are non-negotiable.
Reduce Glare and Simplify Controls
Harsh glare from exposed bulbs can be disorienting and uncomfortable for aging eyes. Choose fixtures with frosted or fabric shades to diffuse light softly. Additionally, replace small or complex light switches with large, easy-to-use rocker switches. Smart lighting that can be controlled by voice is another fantastic, user-friendly option.
GET STARTED TODAY
Ready to make your home safer for the years to come? The local lighting designers at our local lighting store in Shelby Township are here to help. Visit Shelby Design Center today for expert advice and solutions.