In elderly care, most people spend the majority of their time indoors. Still, the natural daylight that we get outdoors is a crucial factor for our sleep and well-being. For people with dementia, it has been proven that daylight exposure can reduce symptoms of depression.
Täby municipality is a strong advocate for welfare technology. Among other solutions, they have invested in Biocentric lighting from BrainLit, a lighting solution which simulates the most important aspects of daylight indoors. The lighting comes with many benefits, including better sleep, mood and a better working environment for care givers.
At several care homes for people with dementia, Attundagården, Johannas Trädgård and Tibblehemmet, Biocentric lighting creates a health-promoting environment for both residents and care givers.
“I think the solutions are good. Especially the lamp that I’ve had for so long. It makes me feel calm,” says Runa, who lives at Attundagården.
The lamp that Runa is talking about is the freestanding solution Alven with Biocentric lighting from BrainLit. There is also a variant of the Alven that has wheels on the foot, which makes it easy to move it around if needed, a feature that is particularly appreciated in healthcare.
Runa is not alone in enjoying the light. At Attundagården there are 25 Alvens, at Johannas Trädgård there are 9 and at Tibblehemmet there are 8. Both residents and care givers have noticed a positive change since they arrived.
Positive feedback from residents and care givers
“We have received positive feedback from both residents and care givers and I am sure that more care homes can benefit from Biocentric lighting,” says Lee Matturi, who is a business developer at Täby Municipality.
Alven is mainly used in common areas such as dining rooms and in corridors. But according to care givers, some of the residents have asked to have Alven inside their apartments because they feel better from the light. One resident expressed that they felt in a better mood under the light and said: “It’s like being out in nature.”
Increase in appetite
In addition, the staff have noticed an increase in appetite among the elderly, a positive effect of the light that contributes to well-nourishment. One of BrainLit’s other customers in elderly care has also provided positive feedback on the weight gain of the residents since the installation of Biocentric lighting.
“Improving the quality of life for the elderly is important to us. When we saw the difference in both mood and appetite, we understood the big impact light has.” Lee concludes.
Are you curious about Biocentric lighting in elderly care? Contact us today at info@brainlit.com
