Lighting can be as varied as front doors. I am not an expert on lighting but by using the principles of Universal Design (UD) to select lighting may insure better age friendly outcomes.

“A 60-year-old needs about twice as much light to be able to read as a 20-year-old, and an 80-year-old needs three times as much,” said Dr. Rosanne Leipzig, at Icahn School of Medicine.

Dr. Leipzig recommends adding task lighting as needed to areas where you read, pay bills, do hobbies, craft, and other activities requiring additional light.

Optimum UD Checklist for INTERIOR & EXTERIOR Lighting:

Lighting is simple, easy to use, is intuitive.
Lighting is interesting or pleasing.
Adequate Lighting for the task (reading, crafting, computer work, cooking etc.) or the space.
Lighting at the top and bottom of any step.
Lighting at all entrances and exits.
Rocker Light switches.
Inside/Outside switches are 40” from the floor.
Use smart technology in lighting systems to enhance safety through automation.
Lighted outdoor pathways.
Plug-in nightlights (LED’s) for all bedrooms in home.

Lighting Is so important in navigating a space safely, but it is even more important if you are unfamiliar with the space. Lighting keeps us safe to see what’s on the floor or exterior pathway so we don’t trip.

Let’s talk about tripping and falls.

Falls are what we are trying to prevent at any age, so we can remain as independent as possible. The good news is, falls are preventable. Adequate lighting is one of the tools we use to prevent a fall.

**Best UD Option for Interior Lighting:** Pendants for task lighting, under the counter lights for task lighting and ambient light, spot lights for over all illumination.
Lighting matches the tasks and spaces, it must be easy to use and simple, **great UD!**

It is optimal to have access to a light as soon as you enter the space (whether inside or outside) rather than having to walk through the space to turn on a light. This also applies when you are exiting the bed, make sure there is light so you can immediately see and navigate the space. I have seen many elderly people carry a small flashlight so they are never without light.

I have used this baby for all kinds of emergency situations! The flashlight is flat , 5” long and fits easily in a pocket, handbag, or fanny pack!

**Rocker Switches are Great UD.**

This combination dimmer is another good UD.

Rocker switches allow all ages to easily turn on and off lights, perhaps too easy for youngsters that find it a fun game! All rocker switches should be located on a wall before you enter the space, then the space before you is illuminated and you are safe.

Switches should be 40” from the floor height for good UD so all can access them.

There are illuminated switches which makes finding the switch much easier. There are slides that attach to a toggle switch if you need the extra height to reach the switch.

Smart devices can provide many automated lighting options for you. Whether it is scheduling, motion activation, voice activated or emergency alerts, the technology can provide many features for your safety and convenience. I love a closet door that activates a light upon opening the door. Simple and easy to use. Great UD.

When considering exterior lighting, you must be aware of the space and how best to illuminate that space. This exterior lighting illuminates a step but you don’t see the front door or shleter in place space. **Notice how dark the door space is.**

Can we do better, yes!

**Better UD Option Exterior Lighting**: Lights on door, porch, and step up. The lighting matches each space or the tasks!

**Best UD Option Exterior Lighting**: Lighting on the door, porch, step up and along the pathway. **All lighting matches each space and task,** walking along the path, stepping up on the porch and finding the door to enter the house. You have the entire porch illuminated so you can easily put an object on a bench if need be.
The **solar pathlights** are great because you **don’t have to remember to turn on a switch! Great UD.**
**Lighting keeps us safe and can prevent a fall.**

**Make your lighting stand out!**

Everyone knows the house with the blue lights. It serves no real function except to identify the front door. **Have fun with your lighting.**

**Exterior lighting is just as important**…..

particularly here with the pool on the left side! It is obvious where the path is illuminated and where it is not.

Let there be Light, inside and out, for every task and space so you can feel safe, independent and have fun.

Ready fo rmore

Let there be Light! Inside & Outside

The Laundry: A space which works for you!