Alzheimer's Society comment on new research suggesting bright lights in care homes benefit people with dementia
Published 12 June 2008
This study shows increasing light intensity in care homes can improve the quality of life for people with dementia and those who care for them.
We need more light to see properly as we get older and this is often not taken into account when equipping care homes that cater for older people. Using considerably stronger light improved cognition in people with dementia, enhanced their sense of night and day, enabled them to sleep better and reduced levels of depression, according to the study.
More research is now needed to develop simple designs that would maximise bright light and influence recommendations for future care home design.
Dr Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Reference
Effect of Bright Light and Melatonin on Cognitive and Noncognitive Function in Elderly Residents of Group Care Facilities: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Rixt F. Riemersma-van der Lek; Dick F. Swaab; Jos Twisk; Elly M. Hol; Witte J. G. Hoogendijk; Eus J. W. Van Someren. JAMA, 2008.
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