Systematic Literature Review: Indoor Lighting and Color Effects on Persons With ASD.

This research review looked at how lighting and colors in indoor spaces affect autistic people. Seven good-quality studies showed that lighting and color choices do impact how autistic people behave and process information. However, most research so far has just described these effects rather than testing specific solutions. More research is needed to create clear guidelines for designing autism-friendly spaces.

This systematic literature review examined how indoor lighting and color environments affect individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Following PRISMA guidelines, researchers searched seven electronic databases and identified seven high-quality studies with moderate to low risk of bias. The review confirmed that lighting design (both daylight and electrical lighting) and color schemes significantly impact behavior, information processing, and overall well-being in people with ASD. However, most included studies were descriptive or exploratory rather than experimental.

The authors identified a substantial gap in practical applications and called for more experimental research to develop evidence-based design guidelines for creating supportive built environments for individuals with autism.

Results support considering lighting and color modifications in autism-supportive environments. However, lack of experimental evidence limits specific recommendations. Practitioners should be aware of potential sensory impacts while awaiting more rigorous research to guide evidence-based environmental design decisions.

Only seven studies met inclusion criteria. Most studies were descriptive or exploratory rather than experimental. Limited practical application guidance available. Sample size across included studies not reported, limiting generalizability of findings.

AimThis systematic literature review, following the PRISMA statement, aims to review the knowledge of how the indoor lighting environment and color palettes impact individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), particularly their behavior and lighting and/or color preferences.BackgroundA supportive built environment is crucial for persons with ASD. Lighting design (daylight and electrical lighting) and color schemes significantly impact their behavior, information processing, and overall well-being. Despite its importance, lighting design for autism has received limited attention in architecture and design research.MethodsA comprehensive search across seven electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, SveMed+, and four library databases including Oria, Regina, the British National Bibliography, and the Royal Danish Library), followed by a thorough review and critical appraisal, resulted in seven (7) high-quality studies with moderate to low risk of bias. Articles were assessed using three standardized checklists, for example, JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies, JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research, and Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).ConclusionsThe findings are consistent with previous research and confirm that light and color influence ASD individuals' behavior and sensitivity.

However, there is a substantial gap in understanding practical applications, as most studies are descriptive or exploratory rather than experimental. Future research should emphasize experimental approaches to develop evidence-based guidelines for designers.