Install Motion Sensor Lighting for Elderly Homeowners

Last Edited: 4/11/24



Exterior motion sensors are great for security, but indoor motion sensor lighting is ideal for the safety and convenience of elderly homeowners or houseguests. Low visibility is a common cause of slips and falls, and motion sensors prevent you and your guests from fumbling for the light switch ever again. Consider your options for interior motion sensor lighting for seniors, most of which you can install yourself.

Wireless Motion-Sensing Lights

This flexible, low-cost option is for people who frequently get up at night. Battery power makes it totally wireless and eliminates the need for a conveniently placed outlet. You can set wireless motion-sensing lights on the floor, the bottom shelf of a bookcase, or any other surface that aims light in the desired direction. Some even have a stick-on feature to mount to the wall.

An invisible, cone-shaped infrared beam picks up motion from a wide range, so it’s easy to set off the light with natural movements such as getting out of bed, walking down the hall, or opening the bathroom door. The light remains on for a few minutes, and then it shuts back off to conserve battery power.

Plug-In Motion-Detecting Nightlight

The perfect option for the bathroom or hallway, a plug-in motion-detecting nightlight doesn’t rely on batteries, so there’s no need to replace them. With long-lasting LEDs, bulb replacements are also few and far between.

The benefit of a motion sensor is that the light shuts off when it’s not needed, conserving power and avoiding the possibility of disrupting anyone’s sleep when used in the bedroom. A few minutes after climbing into bed, the light turns off, and complete darkness returns.

Motion Sensor Light Switches

Sometimes, seniors don’t remember to turn on the overhead light, or they feel they don’t need it. By automating so some lights come on – particularly in closets, stairwells, and hallways – you can help prevent slips and falls.

The easiest way to do this is with motion sensor light switches. These are available in several forms, including snap-on upgrades that fit seamlessly over your existing light switch covers. This allows for instant installation with no need to change out bulbs or modify the electrical wiring.

Motion Sensor Outlets

This solution allows anything that’s plugged into the wall to activate when you walk by. Installation is effortless – simply plug the device into the wall and plug a lamp into the device. There are also versions that automatically turn on the light when it gets dark outside. Many motion sensor outlets are designed to work with LEDs, CFLs, and incandescent bulbs for versatility.

Motion-Activated Toilet Nightlight

A bathroom is an appropriate place for motion sensor lighting, so why not illuminate the toilet itself? There’s no need for an expensive upgrade – simply hang specially designed motion sensor lights on the edge of the seat. A toilet nightlight isn’t just for showing off; it allows seniors to use the facilities without turning on the bright overhead light.

Installation Services from Mr. Handyman

Perhaps adding interior lighting for seniors is just one project on your to-do list. For motion detector installation that requires more than simply plugging in a nightlight or setting a battery-powered device on a shelf, turn to Mr. Handyman. Our services include the installation and replacement of dimmers, timers, motion sensors, and other lighting systems. When you choose us, you can expect a job well done the first time around!

To schedule services with Mr. Handyman, please contact us today.