What is the minimum lighting requirement for the recreation area in a facility?

The minimum lighting requirement for recreation areas in nursing facilities is set to ensure adequate visibility for both residents and staff. Proper lighting contributes to safety, comfort, and the ability of residents to engage in activities without straining their eyesight.

In many regulatory frameworks, including those influencing Pennsylvania nursing homes, the specified minimum illumination level generally recognized for recreational areas is 50 footcandles. This standard is designed to provide sufficient light for activities that involve interaction, mobility, and other engaging tasks, while also accommodating the varying needs of residents who may have different visual capacities.

Higher lighting levels, like the ones suggested in the other choices, may be appropriate for certain tasks or areas but exceed the minimum standard necessary for general recreation use. Thus, while brighter lighting can be beneficial in specific contexts, the established minimum is set at 50 footcandles to ensure both compliance with safety regulations and to accommodate the functional needs of the facility's populations.