The "Darkness" of My Childhood Home I Notice When Visiting for Obon | How My Parents' Generation Sees Light and Brightness

When you visit your parents' home during Obon or other holidays, have you ever felt that the room seems "a bit dark"?

That feeling might not just be your imagination. This article explains why your parents' home might seem dark and how to review lighting, considering how the older generation sees things.

Why Does My Childhood Home Feel Dark?

There isn't just one reason.

First, as people age, they generally tend to perceive the same brightness as darker than before. Therefore, what may be sufficient brightness for the working generation might lead the older generation to feel, "A little brighter would be easier to see."

Furthermore, older light fixtures gradually lose brightness over time, and fluorescent lights can appear yellowish. The combination of "insufficient brightness" and "old-looking colors" can make your childhood home feel dark.

Points to Consider for the Older Generation's Vision

• Brightness: Opt for a slightly brighter illumination that suits the room's size. It's reassuring to have lights that can be dimmed up if needed.
• Glare: Brighter isn't always better; direct, dazzling light can actually make it harder to see. Designs that spread light evenly are more suitable.
• Safety on the Floor: Having minimal light to see the floor, for example, when going to the bathroom at night, can reduce the risk of falls.
• Ease of Use: Being able to adjust brightness with a remote control is convenient as it allows adjustments without having to get up.

Reviewing the Lighting at Your Parents' Home

If old fluorescent fixtures are being used, switching to an LED ceiling light is one option. It's easier to ensure sufficient brightness, and colors will appear more vivid. If there's a hanging ceiling socket, it can be replaced without construction (installation basics), allowing you and your parents to replace it together during your visit.

Incidentally, lighting with easy-to-see brightness is also chosen as a gift for Respect for the Aged Day and similar occasions.

In the Case of lipro

The lipro Sunlight Ceiling Light features high color rendering (Ra97+) similar to natural sunlight, making colors appear natural, and its design ensures even light distribution, suppressing glare. Brightness and color can be adjusted with a remote control, and it also includes a night light mode. Available for 6-tatami and 8-tatami rooms, it's slim and requires no construction thanks to its hanging ceiling socket compatibility (Powered by SunLike).

Summary: "Darkness" is a Sign to Review

If you notice the darkness in your parents' home, it's a good opportunity to review the lighting. Consider brightness appropriate for their age, glare reduction, and floor safety. During your visit, think together about how to improve the "vision" of the older generation every day.

References

• lipro "Sunlight Ceiling Light"
  https://jp.lipro.com/ja-jp/products/ceiling-light-ja