Effective lighting solutions make life brighter for the elderly
Ingemann Components has been an important partner for Belid Lighting Group in developing a circadian light that improves the physical and mental health of residents as well as caretakers at nursing homes.
The circadian light – a so-called biological light – has been designed to increase care home residents’ quality of life and, among other things, help diminish their sleep problems. And its potential is noteworthy, as the right light at the right time of day can improve the circadian rhythm of the elderly, affecting positively both their physical and mental health.
The circadian rhythm is controlled by sunlight, which helps us regulating our internal body clock during the day. Unfortunately, direct sunlight exposure isn’t always possible for the residents of care facilities, and many installations are designed without proper emphasis on the whim of natural daylight.
Belid Lighting Group developed the circadian lighting solution as part of a research project with the municipalities of Aarhus and Copenhagen. Ingemann Components assisted with the optical development and played a key role in the project, according to Tobias Laarmå, CTO of Belid Lighting Group.
“A circadian lighting system ranges between very bright, cold and very warm light. The dynamic use of colors in the LED, reduces the efficiencies of the LED’s significantly and hence efficient designs become increasingly important,” Laarmå explains. “Another challenge was to combine modern technology and optics with a classic design that fits naturally in a nursing home environment. Ingemann Components’ recommendations and expertise were crucial in enabling us to meet these very specific requirements.”
Laarmå continues: “I’ve worked with Ingemann for many years, and I’m impressed with their professionalism, not to mention the possibilities their production facilities hold. They have a great deal of flexibility, which has made the entire process very smooth and efficient. Adding to that, they are extremely professional, and they always go the extra mile to make sure that we find the right solution together.”
Karsten Lindorff, Technical Sales Manager at Ingemann Components, describes the collaboration around the circadian lighting solution as an exciting challenge. “Our task was to optimize the efficiency of the luminaires. We did this in part by modifying the diffusor and adding reflectors around the edge of the lamp and on the board itself, which is where the LEDs are placed,” Lindorff explains. “By doing this, we were able to minimize the light that was trapped inside the lamp and reach the required effect of the lamps.”
The circadian lighting solution is available as a table lamp and a floor lamp. The lamps are easy to move and install where needed; mobility was an important criterion from the very beginning.
According to reports published by the Municipality of Copenhagen, care home residents and their caretakers have experienced improved sleep quality, circadian rhythm, and overall wellbeing as a result of the circadian lighting solutions, including decreases in headaches, insomnia and a lack of appetite.
Moreover, the findings suggest that residents are more active, conflict levels have decreased, and the overall moods of the residents have improved.
The enhanced environment has also significantly improved the staff’s perception of their work environment – a significant accomplishment in a challenged labor marked.
