I frequently suggest the purchase of motion detected lighting for my patients. Frequently people tell me “I have lived here so long, I know where everything is.” I am concerned, however, with the challenge to the balance that a low lighting environment poses. As we grow older we depend more on our vision to give us feedback about our body alignment in comparison to our environment. Our proprioception can become reduced due to arthritis and lack of activity. Our inner ear can become overly sensitive due to a lack of mobility. Medications can further effect our balance. Lighting enhances our ability to improve safety with compensation through our vision.
I frequently run into housing with poorly placed light switches in relation to furniture. Lamps purchased for decoration often provide less than ideal light for movement in the rooms. People who rely on walkers may lose balance as they take a hand away from the walker during movement. Motion detected lighting in strategic places may improve safety in entryways, laundry rooms, closets, bathrooms and on steps.
I have suggested the outlet based motion detected light by GE and it is usually found in the “light bulb” section of larger stores. It sells for about 10.00.
We place them in our garage, basement darkened areas, bathrooms, and hallways.
I recently saw a product that shows great promise. I will try this soon on steps to the basement. It makes a lot of sense as our electrical switch box is in the basement and these battery operated, motion detected lights would solve more than one safety concern.
terrisloanclark 
I still have the one you gave me in the hall. It helps a lot. Also, I know when the dogs are up and around. It comes on at 6:00 am every morning as Shelby comes down the hall to wake me.
Barbara Sloan
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