Circadian Lighting Was Associated with a Reduction in the Number of Hospitalized Patients Experiencing Falls: A Retrospective Observational Study

<b>Background</b>: Falls in hospitalized patients are a significant healthcare concern. This study examined whether circadian lighting, which helps to regulate circadian rhythms, reduces fall risk. <b>Methods</b>: A retrospective study was conducted in a 49-bed subacute and rehabilitation ward after the renovation and the installation of circadian lighting. Patients admitted during the five months with circadian lighting (intervention group) were compared to those admitted in the previous five months under fluorescent lighting (control group). Circadian lighting was defined as at least 275 equivalent melanopic lux between 7 a.m. and 12 p.m. <b>Results</b>: Significantly fewer patients in the intervention group experienced falls (7.4% vs. 15.0%, <i>p</i> = 0.0182). Logistic regression analysis identified circadian lighting as a protective factor (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.558, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.351-0.887, <i>p</i> = 0.0137), while age ≥ 80 (aOR = 2.48, 95% CI: 1.18-5.21, <i>p</i> = 0.0167) and anticonvulsant use (aOR = 3.68, 95% CI: 1.39-9.72, <i>p</i> = 0.0087) were significant risk factors. <b>Conclusion</b>: Circadian lighting was associated with a reduction in the number of patients who experienced falls, while advanced age and anticonvulsant use were significant risk factors.