Progress Lighting, Greenville, S.C., which recently introduced a new line of lighting fixtures for assisted-living centers, says energy-efficient lighting products represent one of the largest opportunities to cut energy costs in healthcare facilities and commercial buildings. The company suggests keeping the following four considerations in mind when selecting lighting systems for an assisted-living facility.
*Older eyes require higher levels of illumination.
*Lamp sources with a color rendering index above 80 should be used for improved visibility due to the yellowing of the eye's lens in seniors.
*As the eye ages it has an increased sensitivity to glare. Techniques that minimize glare should be employed whenever possible.
*Older eyes adapt more slowly to changes in light level, so it's important to maintain consistent illumination level for comfort as well as safety.