As we grow older, we all face eye issues such as reduced visual acuity, sensitivity to light and reduced color discrimination. This is why if you are planning a home remodel focused on aging in place, lighting becomes a lot more important, not just for comfort but for safety reasons as well. For those looking to live in their own home for as long as possible, lighting upgrades are not just a novelty — they really are a necessity.

Ways To Brighten Up Your Home

• Add more lighting fixtures. The solution to many age-related vision problems is simply adding more light. Adding more windows and/or skylights so that they let in more natural light is one great way to achieve this. If adding windows is out of the budget, then you can add task lighting in key locations for reading, cooking, grooming, etc. You can also increase ambient lighting and replace old incandescent bulbs with compact LEDs or fluorescent bulbs.

• Use uniform lighting. Aging eyes can have trouble adapting to changes in lighting levels from room to room. Think about entering a dark room after you’ve been out in the afternoon sun. You can solve this by changing the lighting so that it offers more uniform lighting. If it is within your budget, your home renovation expert might also suggest that you get smart controls that create smooth transitions from outdoor to indoor lighting. 

• Avoid glare. Aging eyes are also more sensitive to glare. Add as many lights as you think necessary but don’t forget to shield naked bulbs with shades to avoid glare. You can also consider matte paint finishes that decrease light reflection.

Let’s Start a Conversation!

Whether you’re thinking about a simple kitchen or bathroom remodel or would like to renovate your house completely, turn to DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Southern Rhode Island for all your home improvement needs. To schedule a free appointment, feel free to give us a call at (401) 741-0385 or fill out our contact form to speak to one of our experts today. We serve homeowners in Coventry, West Greenwich, East Greenwich, Exeter, Newport, North Kingstown, Portsmouth, Shannock, Warwick, Westerly, West Warwick, Wood River Junction, Wyoming and many other communities.