Lighting options have increased in the last few years. If your home’s interior hasn't been updated recently, your lighting plan may need improvement.

     Lighting goes beyond reading lamps by the sofa or the single ceiling mounted fixture over the dining room table. Layering the lighting in each room will provide functional and efficient lighting.
There are three main categories of lighting: ambient, task and accent.

n Ambient or general lighting provides a uniform level of light for moving safely through a room. An even distribution of the light is essential so that you don’t create overly bright or dark areas within the space. This layer may be produced by large area light sources or by a number of smaller sources.

n Task lighting provides illumination for specific tasks such as reading, food preparation or applying makeup. Position the lamp to provide even light distribution and to avoid glare and shadows.

n Accent lighting has a decorative function and creates focal points to accent pictures and art objects. This layer provides drama and adds a personal touch.

     Safety is important at any age; but, unfortunately, falls are more frequent as you grow older. With that in mind, make sure that all halls, walkways, stairs and entrances outside of the home have plenty of light. A light switch should be located at the top and bottom of each staircase.

     Different rooms need different lighting. Consider each space separately. Match the intended function of the space with the light source, the lumen output needed and also the location of the lamps and fixtures.

     In living and family rooms where television viewing and general relaxation are important, ambient lighting from indirect sources is often best. Use recessed fixtures, wall washers and uplights for these spaces along with specific task lights for reading.

    Older kitchens often include just the overhead general fixtures along with a light located over the sink and cooktop. Consider adding under-the-counter task lighting even for just one or two specific locations. Select the counters where you do a majority of your food preparation. Many of these under-the-counter lights can be easily installed and plugged into an outlet.

     In the dining room or over a serving counter, consider replacing a long fixture with a pair or trio of pendants. You can provide additional lighting with buffet lamps, art lights and plug-in shelf lamps. Also consider putting general lighting on a dimmer. That allows for flexibility in the amount of light depending on the situation.