In the USA and around the globe, lighting is changing. Compact, fluorescent “twisty” bulbs and LED lights have arrived, courtesy of EISA (the “Energy Independence and Security Act”; which is designed to reduce energy usage by phasing in new standards for a number of products in the US, including light bulbs). For millions of Americans who suffer from migraine headaches, new light bulbs may mean new headaches.

Researchers have long known that people with migraine are more sensitive to particular types of light. Among those types of light are the “blue” wavelengths that are at the “short-wavelength” end of the visible spectrum. Incandescent lights are typically very low in blue light, having more spectral power in medium and high wavelengths (that is, toward the “red” end of the visible spectrum).

So why might people with migraine experience more discomfort with fluorescent and LED lights than with the old, trusty incandescent?

It’s because both of those non-incandescent varieties have some spectral peaks among the blue wavelengths of light (in addition to other wavelengths). So, the next time your migraine is making you feel “blue”…it might just be due to the blue wavelengths of light in your new light bulbs.
For more information about migraine and wavelengths of light, see the journal, Headache (2000), Volume 40, pp. 194-199. And for a recent comparison of the colors of light that are represented in light bulbs, see the magazine, Popular Mechanics (2011, September, pp. 96-102).

~ article courtesy of Clove Press, Ltd.

 

author of "Chasing Dragonflies :Life & Care in Aging” and "Roses Grow in a Butterfly Garden” is featured in the news: Dr. Seifert reviews films for the American Psychological Association's PsycCRITIQUES. Most recently, she analyzed the film Eat, Pray, Love. Her review--emphasizing the role of nomadic strategy in author Liz Gilbert's life--appeared in the January 5th edition of PsycCRITIQUES. For reviews available without subscription, see PsycCRITIQUES blog online. Dr. Seifert's assessment of the Swedish film Man Som Hatar Kvinnor.

Charles Seifert’s original artwork can be purchased online and at River City Gift Shoppe in Copley, Ohio. Visit now

Dr. Seifert brings her considerable expertise in eldercare into a new book about elder activities. Specifically designed with clear instructions, guides for activity preparation, and ready-to-go activities: Roses Grow in a Butterfly Gardendescribes cognitive exercises for elder- and dementia care, which have been field tested by the author. In addition, final chapters of the book describe how Dr. Seifert and her colleague, Dr. Mindy Baker, test activities. There are charts to show how the activities can be used when cognitive/memory scores are being collected. A wealth of practical knowledge for activity directors, activity staff, community volunteers, and family caregivers, too!