LIGHTING FOR AGING EYES

Aging eyes are more sensitive to glare and older people require 3 times the amount of light to see as well as younger people. The lens of the eye gets yellow with age making it difficult to see colors such as purple/violet and blue/greens.
Inadequate lighting is a safety concern and can affect the depth perception making it difficult for the older community. 

Recently LED lighting has been added to many projects in our senior housing market.  LED light bulbs have less glare than tradition CFL (fluorescent) bulbs.  The LED light bulbs with color rendering index (CRI) of 80 will improve sight in elderly.  LED light bulbs require less maintenance because of their long life span.  Although the initial purchase price will be higher than CLF and you must specify specific LED fixtures,  the pay off will be - ROI (return on investment) over a period of time.

In addition designers should increase light levels in all areas including task - such as kitchen counters, bathroom vanities and desk areas.  Use day lighting as much as possible.