Lighting and Aging Eyes

Older baby boomers are learning a sad fact: when people turn 60, most will need four times the amount of lights to see just as well as when they were 20.

But there's hope: a wide array of lighting products to help old, tired eyes.

The reason for this is that as humans get older their corneas develop layers, much like an onion, which then absorb more light. This means less light gets to the retina and the light receptors housed there.

Experts suggest adding fluorescent tubes under the cabinets to provide high-quality light onto the countertops.

These same experts say to avoid the use of florescents in the bathroom. Instead, they recommend the use of 100 percent color rendering light bulbs. They should be placed on both sides of the bathroom mirror. Dimmers on bathroom lights are also advised since low-levl regular light helps with night vison and will not interupt sleep patterns. The Bath Collection by Minka Lavery offers lighting that attractive and perfect for older eyes.

As we age, our dexterity declines, so we may not be able to adequately use the lights in our homes. If you are looking at lighting controls, consider those devices that provide more flexibility and safety.