Special Needs

Lack of natural daylight exposure can disrupt sleeping patterns in people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease and directly influence their daily behaviors by increasing depression and agitation [9]. Over exposure to electric lighting systems has been found to affect motor restlessness, daytime wakefulness, and nighttime sleep in ADRD patients. These individuals experience lower light levels which disrupt their natural circadian rhythms, and can also result in nighttime wandering; therefore, it is important that they receive healthy sleep to avoid such instances. Healthy sleeping patterns are also important for individuals who experience cognitive disorders such autism and ADHD. Disruption in sleep patterns can cause these individuals to lose focus and become easily agitated.

Problem: Disruptions of circadian rhythms and over exposure to electric lighting can negatively impact the daily behaviors of individuals with special needs.

Possible Solutions:

• Supply drivers that allow users to set dimming schedules for late-night dimming
• Establish multi sensory environments that use light to increase concentration, focus attention, improve alertness, awaken memories, and improve mobilization in those with special needs
• Establish a lighting design that aids users in experiencing uninterrupted sleep throughout the night and in waking them up early
• Introduce lighting control that decreases disruptions of natural circadian rhythms found in those with dementia and other neurological disorders, and those who experience lower light levels than the average person
• Incorporation of an AWA designed firefly inspired ceiling which emits deep purple light or light wavelengths that resembles the night sky, eliminating wavelengths that can disrupt sleep

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