Light therapy is a treatment that involves exposure to an artificial light source. This type of therapy can compensate for any lack of exposure to sunlight. Light therapy can be used to help treat depression and sleep disorders. The positive side of light therapy is how quickly it can start to work. Rather than waiting to be prescribed medication and for the medication to take full effect, light therapy can have immediate effects. Light therapy can be used as a standalone or an add-on treatment to medication. High light levels of bluish white light during the morning hours can be considered for older adults with depressive symptoms and/or who are experiencing sleep problems.
Light therapy can help treat sleep disorders because it can help restore normal circadian rhythms. Circadian rhythms are an individual’s internal clock that is set according to how much bright light they are exposed to. Once the circadian rhythm is restored, regular sleep patterns are restored. Having a normal circadian rhythm can also alleviate the symptoms of depression. Light therapy also helps balance the activation of serotonin which is a key component in mood regulation for the brain. It also increases alertness and can help treat depression.
There are many benefits to light therapy because it is accessible, non-invasive, safe, and convenient. It is generally safe and low risk because it can be done anywhere, and it is not taken internally. Overall, light therapy is easy to start and can be adjusted accordingly depending upon how an individual feels.
Although light therapy can be beneficial, it can have some negative aspects. There is a risk of retinal damage, so older adults who already have retinal damage should avoid this type of therapy. There are also mild side effects such as eye discomfort, headaches, jitteriness, and dizziness. Individuals should be aware of these effects and stop light therapy if they experience any of these side effects. There is also a barrier tied to its cost because most insurance policies may not cover the cost of the light device. Light therapy can be very beneficial, but consistency is recommended for the best results.
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By: Cindy Birrueta
Placement Specialist at WellPath Partners
B.S. in Healthcare Administration at California State University, Long Beach
