It is difficult to propose an ideal general lighting formula as people's responses and needs can be highly individual and changeable. For many hearing impaired people, light is essential in providing clues and to aid residual hearing. Good, natural light augmented by strategically placed, fixed electrical lights are an essential element in making interiors environmentally suited to the needs of hearing impaired people. Portable lamps can be used to increase lighting in specific areas. Special care should be taken to ensure that the faces other occupants are well lit and that hearing impaired users have an unobstructed view of speakers' faces at all times. Avoid the use of grilles and glass screens as these block vision and impede the passage of sound.
For any people with a hearing impairment, particularly elderly, glare can be a major problem. As a general principle, surfaces which are highly reflected / reflective or can generate a lot of glare are not recommended. These may include highly polished floors, large expanses of glass and laminated, glossy posters and displays. Sources of natural daylight such as large windows can supply useful levels of illumination but can also radiate high levels of glare. Adjustable blinds or curtains may be helpful in controlling light levels. To minimise glare, overhead lighting should be recessed wherever possible and light sources should be placed so as to not shine directly into the eyes of hearing impaired users.
Overall lighting should avoid "patches" or sudden changes from brightly lit to dark areas. The rapid adjustments necessary to accommodate the changes in light levels can be both difficult and uncomfortable for the people with a hearing impairment. Entrances and lobby areas may require a slight adjustment in light levels to aid the transition from natural light to an artificially lit environment indoors.
Last modified: Wednesday, 19 October 2011, 8:40 AM
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