Effect of Dynamic Biocentric Light on Sleep and Circadian Rhythm in Frail Elderly Patients

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effect of dynamic light on improving the circadian rhythm, sleep quality, and overall well-being in elderly patients. This trial focuses on a geriatric population that is more vulnerable to circadian rhythm disorders, sleep problems, and confusion during hospitalization. The study aims to understand if dynamic artificial light with circadian stimulus can positively impact these factors and support recovery. The study includes 300 patients over 65 years old admitted to internal medicine or orthopedic surgery departments. Hospital rooms are equipped with a special lighting system creating a biocentric light environment that changes color temperature and intensity throughout the day to mimic natural daylight. Patients are randomly assigned to either the intervention group, which receives the dynamic biocentric light, or the control group, which experiences standard static lighting. Participants will have their light exposure measured precisely and will wear actiwatches to record sleep patterns. Some will provide saliva samples to measure melatonin levels. Surveys on alertness, sleep quality, frailty, and delirium will be conducted. Researchers will monitor changes in melatonin curves and sleep duration after three days of exposure to the light environments. The study will last through the hospital stay, with detailed assessments to evaluate the impact of light on circadian rhythms and well-being.

Light in Frail Elderly - the Effect of a Dynamic Light for Sleep and Circadian Rhythm