# Circadian Lighting Was Associated with a Reduction in the Number of Hospitalized Patients Experiencing Falls: A Retrospective Observational Study

## TL;DR

Circadian lighting in hospitals was linked to fewer patient falls compared to traditional lighting, especially benefiting older patients.

## Contribution

This study shows circadian lighting reduces fall risk in hospitalized patients through a real-world observational approach.

## Key findings

- Circadian lighting reduced fall rates by about 55% compared to fluorescent lighting.
- Older patients (age ≥ 80) had a 2.5 times higher risk of falling.
- Anticonvulsant use increased fall risk by 3.7 times.

## Abstract

Background: Falls in hospitalized patients are a significant healthcare concern. This study examined whether circadian lighting, which helps to regulate circadian rhythms, reduces fall risk. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in a 49-bed subacute and rehabilitation ward after the renovation and the installation of circadian lighting. Patients admitted during the five months with circadian lighting (intervention group) were compared to those admitted in the previous five months under fluorescent lighting (control group). Circadian lighting was defined as at least 275 equivalent melanopic lux between 7 a.m. and 12 p.m. Results: Significantly fewer patients in the intervention group experienced falls (7.4% vs. 15.0%, p = 0.0182). Logistic regression analysis identified circadian lighting as a protective factor (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.558, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.351–0.887, p = 0.0137), while age ≥ 80 (aOR = 2.48, 95% CI: 1.18–5.21, p = 0.0167) and anticonvulsant use (aOR = 3.68, 95% CI: 1.39–9.72, p = 0.0087) were significant risk factors. Conclusion: Circadian lighting was associated with a reduction in the number of patients who experienced falls, while advanced age and anticonvulsant use were significant risk factors.