As people grow older, they often grow wiser, but they typically end up experiencing some diminished physical abilities as a tradeoff. For many older people, the diminishment of certain senses is something that they’re unprepared for, and they simply resign themselves to living with a certain amount of difficulty. However, there are numerous things family members and caregivers can do that offset the erosion of these abilities.
When it comes to the sense of sight, there’s usually no need to give up activities as long as adjustments can be made, and most of those adjustments are easy to implement. More often than not, it comes down to making sure there’s enough quality light so that seniors can enjoy all of the activities that have become essential to their routines.
What can you do to help?
More Light!
As people age, their retinas lose the ability to take in as much light as they did when they were younger. If the senior in your life complains of troubles reading or performing certain intricate tasks around the house, it’s probably time to consider installing brighter, more powerful bulbs and fixtures. It might create an environment that seems harshly bright to you, but for the aging loved one in your life, it can restore the ability to participate in important activities and chores.
Function Over Form
When selecting lamps and light fixtures, most people opt for style over the ability to provide adequate light. To improve conditions, it’s a good idea to evaluate the light fixtures in your senior’s home and determine if any of them should be replaced. They might look nice, but if they’re not providing enough high-quality illumination, they aren’t doing their job.
Light at Night
Seniors require more light than younger people for reading, cooking, shaving, bathing and performing a number of regular, day-to-day activities, but they also need more light during the evening hours just to make sure that they move about their homes safely. Night lights don’t have to act as booming beacons; they just need to provide enough illumination for seniors to be able to see the actions that they’re taking and avoid accidents after the sun has gone down. And with low-cost options such as LEDs, there is little concern about wasting electricity by keeping a light on overnight.
Need More Help Making a Home Safe and Comfortable for Your Senior?
At Always Best Care, our caregivers and staff are devoted to improving every aspect of patients’ lives, and that includes creating a home environment that’s safe and conducive to a comfortable lifestyle. If you need help creating a bright, healthy space for your loved one, give Always Best Care a call today at 1-855-470-CARE (2273) for your FREE consultation. We’re here to help!
