Preparing for Aging in Place: Exterior Lighting

BY WILLIE A. PRICE, CAPS, UNIVERSAL DESIGN ESSENTIALS & REHABILITATION SPECIALIST

WILLIE A. PRICE

As we age, maintaining independence and safety in the home becomes a top priority. One of the most overlooked — yet most impactful — elements of an Age in Place plan is proper exterior lighting. Good lighting not only enhances safety and visibility but also provides peace of mind, comfort, and a welcoming environment for both residents and visitors. That’s why Majadi Enterprises, Inc. took part in a free interior and exterior lighting program in the city of Buffalo for seniors residing on the Eastside, in collaboration with the East Buffalo Development Corporation. The free lighting project allowed us to assist in interviewing, making appointments and installing interior and exterior motion sensor lighting on the interior and exterior of the homes.

This article will focus on why exterior lighting is important for seniors and visitors to the home. Reduced night vision, slower reaction times, and balance issues can make nighttime navigation difficult for older adults and visitors. Inadequate lighting around steps, walkways, or driveways can increase the risk of falls and injuries. Additionally, well-lit exteriors help deter intruders and make it easier for emergency personnel to locate the home quickly. In our “Preparing Your Home for Winter” workshop with National Fuel Gas. We often recommend motion sensor lighting on the exterior to installing interior and exterior motion sensor lighting on the interior and exterior of the homes. This article will focus on why exterior lighting is important for seniors and visitors to the home. Reduced night vision, slower reaction times, and balance issues can make nighttime navigation difficult for older adults and visitors. Inadequate lighting around steps, walkways, or driveways can increase the risk of falls and injuries. Additionally, well-lit exteriors help deter intruders and make it easier for emergency personnel to locate the deter intruders and to help reduce the cost associated with using dusk to dawn light fixtures. Modern Universal Design technology makes managing home lighting effortless. Motion sensors vs dusk-to-dawn controls, and smart lighting systems ensure that areas are illuminated automatically without requiring switches — perfect for seniors with limited mobility or dexterity. Solar powered lighting fixtures along the walkways and placed on or along staircases and handrails are also recommended.

These are a few recommendations where lighting should be located to ensure both safety and comfort, consider these areas as your first steps for exterior lighting placements: Entry ways: Install motion-sensor lights at all doors. Walkways and Pathways: Use (solar) low-level, glare free LED path lights to clearly define walking areas without creating harsh shadows. Driveways and Garages:

Bright overhead or wall-mounted motion fixtures recommended. Stairs, Steps, Decks and Patios: Add recessed step lighting or rail-mounted (solar) LEDs to reduce tripping hazards. Solar Path Lights: Eco-friendly and easy to install perfect for gardens, walkways, staircases and handrails.

Lighting isn’t just about brightness — it’s about creating an environment that promotes independence, confidence, and safety. With thoughtful exterior lighting design, seniors and veterans can enjoy their homes comfortably and securely for years to come.