As October zips by, the nights grow longer and daylight hours are to be cherished. This is a difficult time of year for folks, especially those who are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and those who suffer with low vision challenges.

Take a few minutes and think about the older adults in your lives.  Seniors need two to three times as much light in order to see as well as younger people. If you live nearby offer to visit your loved ones or ask a neighbor or friend if you are a long distance caregiver. Check on lamps, nightlights and overhead light fixtures for burned-out bulbs. What about outdoor lights for front porches, walkways and driveways? Changing a few light bulbs is a kind gesture and a great safety measure. The importance of good lighting cannot be overstated.

“Good lighting — in the form of natural light — provides seniors safety and other advantages:

• Sunlight provides a good dose of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb more calcium to strengthen teeth and bones. Choose window treatments that let in sunlight, without glare, to enhance the health of seniors, many of who get outside less than they used to.
• Daylight also improves psychological health. It lessens the energy-zapping effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and other forms of depression.”