Kiwi optometrists have weighed into the debate about energy efficient light bulbs, saying they are often not up to the job.
The New Zealand Association of Optometrists says in certain circumstances the bulbs are unable to produce enough light and that can be frustrating or downright dangerous, especially for the elderly.
By the end of next year, these bulbs will replace incandescent bulbs in NZ, in a government bid to cut lighting energy consumption by 20 percent within seven years. Optometrists are not supportive of the move and say the bulbs produce a dimmer light and strain the eyes for activities like reading.
According to optometrist Geoff Sargent poor lighting reduces an individual’s quality of life: “The ability of those with visual impairment to do tasks and have a good quality of life is dependent on being able to see things. If there is not good lighting, it makes it harder.”
The bulbs do get brighter as they warm up, but there are fears they are too slow to provide adequate lighting in areas like hallways and stairs, particularly for the elderly
The bulbs do get brighter as they warm up, but there are fears they are too slow to provide adequate lighting in areas like hallways and stairs, particularly for the elderly.
Advocates for the elderly are concerned the low light from energy efficient light bulbs may increase the risk of falls. In some cases, these falls can be extremely serious.
