As we age, lighting is more important than ever. According to the American Lighting Association (ALA)Every person needs more light to see clearly.

Terry McGowan is the director of engineering at the ALA. “Older eyes experience two important changes.”

First, as we age, our need for light to sustain visual performance rises. Research shows that 60-year olds require twice as much light to sustain their visual performance as 30-year-olds.

Second, as we age, our eyes become more sensitive and sensitive to glare. This can make it seem like a Catch-22. More light can often lead to increased glare. This is why quality of light becomes more important as you get older.

Homeowners should take into account the user age when designing their home lighting. Many baby boomers are now in their mid-60s. You can make your home more enjoyable for older adults and baby boomers by making a few light adjustments.

* Turn on one or two table lamps while watching TV to reduce the contrast between the bright screen and the surrounding darkness.

* Use a torchiere for uplighting as well as downward illumination for versatility. For some downward illumination, you will want a fixture that has either a separate task lamp attached or a bowl of glass at the top.

* Have a task light that can be directed or pivoted.

Lighting design is vital for human health.

“As people get older, it isn’t just the amount of light, it is also the color of the light and when it is applied, that is key to regulating things such as circadian rhythm and REM sleep cycles,” says McGowan.

Research is showing that light has a significant impact on human health, including the susceptibility to Alzheimer’s disease. It is now clear that aging people need to take steps to improve their eyesight and health.

McGowan says the answer is to have bright days and dark night. “If you’re older and don’t sleep very well, expose yourself to bright light, such as daylight, early in the morning … a walk outside will do it … and sleep in a dark room at night. That will do everything required to regulate your circadian rhythm,” says McGowan.

Visit a local ALA to see fixtures that improve light quality and reduce glare.member retailerYou can also go online www.americanlightingassoc.com.