In their ambition to deliver optimal healthcare experiences, healthcare settings are increasingly recognising the influence of the physical environment on the patient well-being. A key consideration in the modern design of healthcare facilities is the integration of natural light into patient recovery spaces.
The role of daylight in healthcare settings extends beyond mere illumination; it profoundly impacts patient recovery, psychological well-being, and overall health.
Research [1] has demonstrated that patients with beds next to windows, exposed to daylight, have shorter lengths of stay compared to those further from natural light sources.
In addition, daylight has been found to alleviate depressive symptoms more rapidly than antidepressants. While antidepressants typically take 4-6 weeks to show effects in treating seasonal affective disorder (SAD), daylight can reduce symptoms within just two weeks. This rapid improvement highlights the importance of daylight in care environments, particularly for patients with mood disorders.
Moreover, daylight contributes to better circadian rhythm regulation. Proper exposure to daylight helps maintain the body’s internal clock, improving sleep quality and overall well-being. This is particularly beneficial for patients confined indoors for extended periods. Improved sleep quality can lead to faster recovery, reduced reliance on medication, and greater patient satisfaction.
By designing healthcare facilities with spaces that maximise exposure to daylight, designers can create healing environments that support recovery, lower healthcare costs, and improve overall outcomes.
[1] Impacts of indoor daylight environments on patient average length of stay (ALOS) in a healthcare facility – ScienceDirect
