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Seniors Sleep Better with Light Therapy
3 Sep
Summary
- Light therapy lamps improved sleep cycles in seniors.
- Study involved over 200 seniors in three European cities.
- Increased daytime activity and better sleep quality observed.
A recent study published on September 2, 2026, in the Journal of Pineal Research highlights the effectiveness of bright light therapy for improving sleep in seniors. Researchers found that light therapy lamps enhanced sleep cycles and activity levels in older adults living in urban settings who had limited exposure to natural light.
The study involved over 200 participants, aged 63 to 92, residing in Tartu, Estonia; Bologna, Italy; and Amsterdam. For three months, approximately half of the participants used a full-spectrum therapy lamp for four hours daily, starting within an hour of waking. This intervention was found to significantly boost daytime activity, improve wakefulness, and enhance sleep quality.
Lead researcher Débora Constantino stated that light therapy is a simple, non-pharmacological, and potentially cost-effective intervention that could support healthy aging. Senior researcher Daan van der Veen noted the crucial role of daytime light exposure in regulating circadian rhythms and sleep patterns, especially for seniors who may have reduced eyesight or mobility issues hindering outdoor access.
