After a renovation at Diakonhjemmet, the geriatric psychiatric department implemented circadian lighting from Chromaviso last year. It has since proven to be a significant advantage for both staff and patients, who experience the beneficial effects of the health-promoting light on a daily basis.
In the geriatric psychiatric department at Diakonhjemmet, there are 12 beds where disorders in individuals over the age of 65 are evaluated and treated. The patients admitted to the department have affective disorders, psychotic disorders, confusion states, and cognitive decline. What all the patients have in common is the need for structure, tranquillity, rest, and care in their daily lives – and in the department, they experience the positive effects of circadian lighting.
— Light is a significant contributor to the therapeutic experience on the ward, says Lena Haukland-Haugen, the assistant unit manager.
She adds that patients themselves provide feedback on the impact of the lighting, and the staff also notice that nights are calmer since the implementation of circadian lighting. This is especially true for individuals who do not spend as much time outside and are in sheltered areas. It is in these areas where the different settings, such as calming lights and activity, are used more consciously when needed. The calming light settings help patients relax and have a positive impact on them.
An improved daily life for staff and patients
It's not just the patients who benefit from circadian lighting in the department. According to Lena Haukland-Haugen, many employees also experience better sleep after an evening shift with circadian lighting in the workplace.
— We can feel how it affects both us, who work here and the patients. The staff gives feedback that they feel more refreshed after a day shift, and it's easier to unwind after an evening shift, she says.
The quality of work on the site has also improved. Headaches, which were previously a challenge for the staff, have now been reduced as a result of circadian lighting.
— It feels like everyday life is better for many of the staff. We are very happy with the lighting, it makes a big difference, adds Lena Haukland-Haugen, highlighting the improved work environment as an argument for why having circadian lighting on site is beneficial.
Reduced use of medication
To get maximum benefit from circadian lighting, it places high demands on the quality of the technology, a priority that Chromaviso emphasizes. The calmer nights in the department are a result of the circadian lighting taking into account the body's natural rhythm. This is achieved through biological darkness, which requires the light to reach 1800 Kelvin with a maximum of 1% blue light. Additionally, the slow and gradual transitions create a natural light, which has a significant impact on both staff and patients. Lena Haukland-Haugen also assesses that circadian lighting has led to a reduction in the use of resources and money on medication and additional personnel during the night.