TL;DR
Vision changes over time, and a range of factors—from age to environmental influences—can increase the need for more light to see clearly and comfortably.
But what exactly is driving this change, and what can you do about it? Here, we’ll explore the common causes behind the need for brighter light and offer practical guidance to help you create an environment that feels just right.
The role of ageing eyes
As you age, natural changes in the eye can make it more challenging to see in lower light. A common factor here is the gradual thickening of the lens, which can reduce the amount of light reaching the retina.
Additionally, this lens can take on a yellowish tint over time, which affects contrast and colour perception. Combined, these changes mean you’ll likely need more light to see the same level of detail as before.
It’s worth remembering that these changes don’t happen overnight. But if you’re finding reading or intricate tasks increasingly challenging in your usual lighting setup, a brighter light source could make a difference.
For many, switching to warm yet bright LED lights or adjustable desk lamps provides targeted lighting that enhances visibility without harsh glare.
Eye conditions that affect light sensitivity
Several eye conditions can make it harder to see in dim light, and unfortunately, some are more common with age. Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are particularly relevant here.
- Cataracts: Cataracts is a clouding of the lens that prevents light from reaching the retina clearly, creating a dim or foggy effect.
- Glaucoma: Glaucoma often leads to tunnel vision, and in later stages, it can significantly impact the amount of light required to see clearly.
- Diabetic retinopathy: This condition affects the retina’s blood vessels, leading to various vision problems, including the need for brighter lighting.
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): AMD directly impacts central vision, making detailed tasks more difficult and increasing the need for brighter lighting to compensate for the loss of clarity.
If you’re experiencing difficulty in low-light environments and suspect an underlying eye condition, it’s best to consult an eye specialist. They can provide specific recommendations for lighting adjustments or other aids that may enhance your visual comfort.
Changes in pupil size and its impact
As you get older, the pupil’s ability to expand in low light becomes less responsive. This restricted ability means less light enters the eye, especially in dimly lit environments.
For many, it translates to needing brighter lighting for nighttime reading or dimly lit restaurants that previously didn’t pose an issue.
To counter this, consider investing in adjustable lights, like dimmable bulbs or lamps with various settings. This setup allows you to tailor the lighting based on different tasks and times of day, ensuring you can enjoy an environment that meets your specific needs comfortably.
Medication effects on visual comfort
Certain medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications, can affect your visual comfort. Some may cause dry eyes, while others may impact light sensitivity, both of which can create a need for more light.
If you’re on any medications that could contribute to this effect, it might be worthwhile to discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider or explore remedies like artificial tears or lubricating eye drops.
While this is more common among older adults, it’s helpful to be aware of medication side effects at any age. Adjusting your home lighting to be a little brighter or incorporating task lighting can ease the visual strain that these medications might unintentionally bring.
Low contrast sensitivity
Contrast sensitivity is crucial for distinguishing between objects and backgrounds, especially in low-light conditions.
When this sensitivity diminishes, as can happen with AMD or diabetic eye disease, it becomes harder to perceive edges and details in dim light, leading to a stronger need for bright lighting.
For instance, reading text or distinguishing items against a similarly coloured background becomes challenging without added light.
Opting for high-contrast lighting, where light doesn’t cast too many shadows, can help. Some find using full-spectrum lighting, which mimics natural daylight, effective in enhancing contrast, making tasks more manageable.
Poor indoor lighting design
It’s surprising how much impact poor indoor lighting can have on your need for additional brightness. Many homes or offices rely on minimal overhead lighting, often insufficient for reading or intricate tasks.
Standard lights can also create uneven lighting with shadowy areas that make it harder to see comfortably.
A well-placed lamp or adjustable LED fixture can change your environment significantly. Aim to position lights where they eliminate shadows, especially for areas where you read, cook, or work.
Adjustable lamps and task lighting can help focus light where it’s needed most, making the space more functional and visually comfortable.
Screen strain and the need for extra light
With increasing screen time comes increased strain on the eyes, a factor many people overlook when assessing their lighting needs.
Staring at a screen for extended periods can lead to eye fatigue, especially in dim environments. The transition from screen time to other activities often highlights the need for additional light to see clearly.
Creating a balanced lighting setup in your workspace can reduce eye strain and lessen the abrupt transition between screen and off-screen activities.
Aim for ambient lighting that reduces glare without casting shadows on the screen, or consider blue-light filters for screens if you experience discomfort. This setup may allow you to work comfortably without straining to see under standard lighting.
How to deal with needing brighter light
With so many factors contributing to the need for brighter light, here are a few practical ways to ensure your lighting is meeting your needs:
- Consider an eye exam: If you find yourself constantly increasing the brightness without much improvement, it’s worth booking an eye exam. An eye specialist can identify any conditions that might contribute to your need for brighter light and advise on other aids or treatments.
- Opt for adjustable LED lighting: LED lights come in various colour temperatures and brightness levels, making it easy to adapt lighting for different tasks. Whether you need bright light for reading or a softer glow for relaxing, adjustable LEDs provide flexibility.
- Task lighting for detailed work: Reading, sewing, or cooking often benefits from task lighting, where light is directed exactly where you need it. Adjustable desk lamps or under-cabinet lighting in kitchens can make these tasks more comfortable and prevent eye strain.
- High-contrast lighting: For those with low contrast sensitivity, lighting that eliminates shadows and provides a broad, even glow is particularly helpful. Full-spectrum lighting is also effective, as it can enhance colour and contrast perception.
- Reduce glare with soft lighting: Glare can be just as troublesome as dim lighting. Choose lampshades, diffusers, or indirect lighting setups to soften bright lights, reducing strain on the eyes.
- Position lights strategically: Avoid overhead lights as the sole source of illumination. Instead, use multiple sources at different levels to create an even light spread, reducing shadows and enhancing visibility in all areas.
Final notes
Your need for brighter light can stem from various sources—be it natural changes in vision, specific eye conditions, or even the lighting setup in your home.
By understanding the common causes and taking a few practical steps, you can improve the comfort and quality of your vision.
It’s about making adjustments that support your daily needs and bring you closer to a comfortable, well-lit space where you can see clearly and live comfortably.
If you’ve noticed your lighting needs increasing, perhaps it’s the right moment to evaluate your surroundings and ensure they’re meeting your evolving vision requirements.
