Novel Lighting for Fall Prevention in Dementia

This trial aims to determine if special low-intensity lights can prevent falls at night for people with dementia in assisted living facilities. The lights outline doorframes, providing visual cues that may aid balance and stability. Participants will experience various lighting setups, including a novel lighting condition, in their rooms over a year to compare effects. This trial suits residents with dementia who live in assisted living, are not blind, and do not have an overnight sitter every night. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance safety and quality of life for those with dementia.

The trial information does not specify whether participants must stop taking their current medications.

Research shows that the new lighting system under testing is generally safe and can help reduce falls at night. Early studies found that people using this lighting system did not experience any harm or negative effects. Designed to be subtle, the system provides visual cues to aid balance, especially at night. Similar light therapies have been used safely in dementia care, making this a promising option for participants.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a novel lighting condition to help prevent falls in patients with dementia. Unlike standard fall prevention methods, which often rely on physical aids or medication, this approach focuses on environmental modifications through tailored lighting sequences. By adjusting lighting conditions throughout the year, the trial aims to enhance visibility and reduce fall risk without the need for more intrusive interventions. The hope is that this innovative, non-invasive strategy could offer a safer, more comfortable living environment for individuals with dementia, potentially transforming how we approach fall prevention in this vulnerable group.

Research has shown that a new lighting system, which participants in this trial may experience as part of the novel lighting condition, can help reduce nighttime falls for people with dementia. An earlier study found a 34% reduction in falls with these special lights compared to regular lights. These lights provide clear visual signals that enhance balance and safety. Cameras tracked falls, confirming the effectiveness of this lighting. These promising results suggest that the new lighting can make nighttime safer for residents in assisted living facilities.¹²³⁶⁷