It’s essential that individuals of all abilities are able to have more accessible and connected homes. Fortunately, smart home technology has been able to make living at home independently possible for almost anyone. For example, we no longer need to rely on disability-specific devices to carry out tasks. Our smartphones are now packed with access-based tools that help people connect with their world in new and exciting ways. These technology advances have come a long way, at a wide variety of points, enabling users to custom design their own integrated smart home solution to best meet their unique needs.
Voice Activation
Using voice activation through technologies such as Amazon Echo and OK Google can not only turn any home into a Smart Home – but make living safely and independently a reality for people of all abilities. This technology allows you to control appliances in your home, apartment, or workspace via voice commands or through the companion app you can download to your smartphone. With ever increasing integration into the internet of things, the possibilities are truly endless for connecting with your world.
Smart Locks
Using a smart lock in your home is safer than using a simple keypad, especially if you need to offer housekeepers, therapists, and nurses access to your home. For example, a keypad won’t be able to tell you who it has let in and can’t automatically change the combination to keep your home secure. Plus, as soon as someone knows the combination, they can enter your home. One of the best smart locks on the market is the August Smart Lock, which uses smartphones as “keys.” You can also view a log of who entered your home and restrict access to certain users.
Smart Video Doorbell
For people that can’t come to the door because of illness or disability, a smart doorbell is a worthy investment to let you know who’s at the door. One of the best smart doorbells on the market is the Ring smart doorbell that has a built-in motion sensor camera to identify whose at the door and lets you answer from your couch. Utilizing 1080HD video, you can monitor your home directly through your smart device from virtually anywhere.
Smart Thermostat
Further integration with a smart thermostat can help keep your home at the perfect temperature without even needing to touch it. Although changing the temperature is no hard task, people who can’t reach the device from a wheelchair can benefit from a smart thermostat which can be controlled via a smartphone or tablet. Also, the smart device will learn when to raise and lower the temperature, as well as help you save money on energy costs.
Smart Lighting and Outlets
Not having visibility in your home can be putting yourself at risk. However, by installing smart lighting and outlets, you can prevent this problem and improve visibility in your home. Besides being able to control your outlets and lighting by a tap of your smartphone, you can change the colors of the lighting in your home and set them on timers, so they don’t run all night. One of the best smart lighting systems on the market is Philips Hue, which is not only affordable, but also incredibly functional.
Smart Curtains, Shades or Blinds
If your mobility is restricted, it can be difficult to open and close curtains, shades, and blinds. However, with smart window coverings, it is much easier. Not only is operation simpler, but controlling natural light in your home is easier, too. You can operate them with the touch of a button on an app. A few great options include Slides, My Smart Blinds, and Soma smart shades.
Smart home tech makes it easier for people with different levels of ability to live and thrive independently. This is perhaps the most wonderful thing about new tech advancements making their way into the home. Each smart home ecosystem is different and capable of being customized to meet all people’s needs, regardless of age, ability, or motor function. If we continue heading in this direction with smart home tech, we will absolutely be on our way to Moving Life Forward for all.