7 Lighting Fixes That Reduce Falls

Better lighting is one of the quickest fall-prevention upgrades you can make, and you can do most of it in one weekend.

Bright home entry with clear walking path.

Good lighting is not just about brightness. It is about consistency, contrast, and reducing glare.

1) Light pathways, not just rooms

Focus on the path from bed to bathroom, from entry to kitchen, and around stairs.

2) Add motion lights in hallways

Motion-activated lights prevent "dark first steps" at night.

3) Use warm bulbs with less glare

Harsh light can flatten depth perception. Warm, diffuse light is usually easier on aging eyes.

4) Increase contrast at edges

Use lighting and contrast tape to make step edges, thresholds, and transitions easier to see.

5) Layer light in task areas

Under-cabinet kitchen lights and reading lamps reduce shadowy "guessing zones."

6) Remove bulbs with inconsistent color

Mixed bulb temperatures in one area can make spaces feel visually confusing.

7) Put key lights on easy-to-reach switches

Reduce stretching and fumbling by relocating or simplifying controls.

Quick win

Start with one night route

Improve one route first: bed to bathroom. If that feels better, continue room by room.


More to explore

A few practical next reads.

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