Written by Level Home Staff
For many, smart home devices are a luxury or added convenience – music playing at your command, lights that change color based on the time of day. But for senior citizens or anyone with a disability, smart home technology can be an empowering tool for living independently. In this article, we'll explore why smart home devices are especially helpful for seniors and people with disabilities, and highlight some devices that users have found life-changing.
Approximately 1 in 4 adults in the US, or 61 million people, report living with at least one disability. Older adults (65+) reported the highest disability prevalence. Among them, smart home devices are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to enhance quality of life.
“A few years ago, we had a client who had a heart attack and had limited one side use of her arms. She was in a wheel chair. We added power blinds, automated lighting, motorized sliding doors that were triggered by her wheel chair passing through the hallway, whole house audio, TV / media control, voice control of all, touchscreen mounted to her wheel chair on her usable arm side, etc.
Things like blinds / lights / security system were timed to do their thing so she didn't have to do anything herself. She could override using voice / touchscreen.” - AllonisDavid
Smart home devices can significantly enhance safety and security for seniors and people with disabilities. Devices like video doorbells and smart security systems help monitor the home environment and can alert caregivers or emergency services if needed. Some smart security devices even come with built-in voice assistants for hands-free control. Smart locks, among other things, can be programmed to automatically lock doors. They can be operated remotely, allowing a person who uses a wheelchair, for example, to let someone in without the need to go to the front door.
Voice-activated assistants and smart lighting systems make it easier for individuals with mobility or visual impairments to control their home environment. These devices can be operated with simple voice commands or through mobile apps, reducing the need for physical interaction.
A person with a visual impairment, for example, could use a smart speaker for searching the web, ordering groceries, or setting a timer. A person with mobility issues could use a smart speaker to activate a connected smart vacuum. Smart lighting can be programmed to turn on at dusk so seniors will always have a brightly lit home, reducing the risk of falls.
“I have difficulty standing up/walking, so it is nice to be able to dim or turn the lights off or on without getting up. I programmed the living room lights to turn red when our favorite baseball team is about to start their games. Also the porch and living room lights come on when my phone gets within range in the evening - no motion sensor needed.” - joiedumonde
By automating routine tasks, like adjusting thermostats or shutting blinds, and expanding accessibility, smart home devices empower seniors and disabled individuals to live more independently. Smart home devices may be particularly useful in areas where access to care resources is limited, such as rural communities.
The increased autonomy from smart technology can also improve overall quality of life, as one reddit user put it, “It's true that his caregiver (my mom) could just do it, [but] giving him a tiny bit of control over his environment when so much is taken away is important.”
While this list is not exhaustive, below are some common smart devices and ways they can be useful for people with disabilities and seniors.
Allow users to control various smart home features using voice commands
Provide reminders for medications or appointments, making daily management easier
Offer customizable lighting solutions that can be controlled remotely or via voice commands
Enhance visibility and safety in the home
Can be adjusted to suit individual needs, providing optimal lighting conditions for those with visual impairments
Automated lighting can help prevent falls by ensuring well-lit pathways during nighttime hours
Adapt to users' habits over time, optimizing energy usage while maintaining a comfortable environment throughout the home
Can be automated to not require manual adjustments
Provide real-time video feeds of visitors at the door, enhancing security and peace of mind
Offer comprehensive surveillance both indoors and outdoors
Allow keyless entry via smartphone apps, fobs, or voice commands, helpful for those who may struggle with traditional keys
Provide wearable devices that connect users directly with emergency services when needed most urgently
Crucial for ensuring safety in case of emergencies
Before purchasing any device(s), assess specific needs based on mobility limitations or other factors affecting daily living activities (ADLs).
Ensure compatibility between different brands/models within your existing network infrastructure (e.g., Wi-Fi routers).
Follow manufacturer instructions carefully during installation/setup processes; consult online tutorials if necessary!
Take time teaching loved ones how each device works; practice regularly until they feel comfortable using them independently.
Our predictions for future trends in the smart home industry around care for seniors and people with disabilities.
As with the use of AI predictive analytics in healthcare, we expect continued integration between smart devices and AI-driven algorithms capable of predicting potential risks before they occur (e.g., fall detection systems).
Currently, according to Techstack, “IoT in telemedicine helps monitor patients' health without the burden associated with in-patient visits. It also opens more business opportunities for medical providers, as IoT makes remote care for seniors more accessible and in-demand.” In the future, look forward to increased collaboration between smart devices and healthcare providers leveraging telemedicine platforms alongside existing IoT infrastructures!
Smart homes represent exciting opportunities to improve lives for countless individuals! By embracing these innovations today, you'll pave the way for a brighter tomorrow filled with newfound freedom, independence, safety, and comfort alike.
Ready to take the first step? Shop our smart lock collection today!
