Human centric lighting can support health, wellbeing and performance by combining the visual, biological and emotional benefits of light. Lars-Fredrik Forberg, concept manager, Glamox, considers the positive effects of light exposure in people with dementia
Several research projects have sought to document the effects of artificial lighting in a range of colour temperatures and intensity levels on elderly careresidents. Improved sleep quality and sleep patterns, a reduction in depressive symptoms and an increased sense of wellbeing are some of the effects that have been seen in residents with dementia.
Light has a significant impact on wellbeing and performance. Our daily circadian rhythms are controlled by several ‘zeitgebers’ (a rhythmically occurring natural phenomenon that acts as a cue in terms of regulation), of which light is the most important external factor.1After the discovery of a third type of photo-receptor on the retina of the eye - the ganglion cells2- we now understand more about how light regulates hormone balance. These ganglion cells contain melanopsin, a protein that is sensitive to blue light in particular.1
During blue light exposure, signals are sent to an internal clock, which is a collection of cells inside the brain. These cells then regulate the release or suppression of the sleep hormone melatonin.3The same light has an effect on cortisol4and serotonin levels.5
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