Lighting can have a significant impact on the daily lives of people who are blind or partially sighted. It can affect their ability to move around safely, read and write, and even their mental health.
At RNIB, we understand the importance of lighting in the lives of our customers. That’s why we’ve put together some tips and advice on how to make the most of your lighting.
Blue light and smart devices
Did you know that many smart devices, such as smartphones and tablets, emit blue light? This can be particularly problematic for people who are sensitive to light, as it can cause eye strain and discomfort.
However, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce the amount of blue light emitted by your devices. For example, you can adjust the settings on your device to reduce the brightness and contrast, or you can use blue light filtering glasses or apps.
Task lighting
Task lighting is a type of lighting that is specifically designed to illuminate a particular area or task. This can be particularly useful for people who are blind or partially sighted, as it can help them to focus on the task at hand.
There are many different types of task lighting available, including desk lamps, floor lamps, and under-cabinet lighting. When choosing a task light, it’s important to consider the type of task you will be performing, as well as the level of lighting you need.
Lighting for reading
Reading is an important part of daily life, and it’s essential that people who are blind or partially sighted have access to suitable lighting. This can help them to read more comfortably and safely.
When choosing a light for reading, it’s important to consider the type of reading material you will be using. For example, if you will be reading books or documents, you may want to choose a light with a high level of brightness and a focused beam. If you will be reading digital screens, you may want to choose a light with a lower level of brightness and a wider beam.
Lighting for mental health
Lighting can also have a significant impact on our mental health. For example, exposure to natural light can help to regulate our circadian rhythms and improve our mood. However, for people who are blind or partially sighted, this can be more challenging.
That’s why it’s important to create a comfortable and relaxing lighting environment. This can be achieved by using a combination of different light sources, such as overhead lighting, table lamps, and floor lamps. You can also use dimmers or smart lighting systems to adjust the level of lighting to suit your needs.
By following these tips and advice, you can create a lighting environment that is comfortable, safe, and suitable for your needs.
