How Smart Home Technology Transforms the Lives of People with Disabilities
By Briana Hilton
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, around 13% of the US population have a disability, meaning that over 42 million US citizens experience hearing, vision, walking, cognitive, self-care or independent living difficulties. These numbers, coupled with the remote work boom, mean that people are spending more time at home.
For those with disabilities, therefore, there is a soaring demand for devices that facilitate home life. The good news is that smart tech and home automation does not have to be prohibitively expensive. For example, smart plugs that can remotely activate and deactivate connected can cost as little as $10.
Below are just a few of the most popular smart home devices that can make life easier and more practical for people living with one or more disabilities.
Voice Assistants Promote Automony for Disabled People
What was once seen as just a convenient tool for everyday tasks is now proving itself to be life changing for individuals with disabilities. Voice assistants offer a seamless way to access information, send messages and control smart home devices.
The intuitive interaction allows them to navigate without the need for physical contact, making daily tasks easier and more efficient. These devices enable users to manage schedules, order groceries and set reminders, including crucial ones such as when to take medication.
Additionally, the integration of voice assistants with other assistive technologies allows visually impaired users to receive useful information about the items in their environment and their distance from features such as doors and furniture.
Smart Home Security Devices Boost Independence and Safety
Smart home security devices enable people with disabilities to feel safer at home, since they identify and notify dwellers of potential threats. These devices are connected to apps that allow users to turn security systems on or off, check live video feeds and receive real-time alerts.
Some systems come with in-built voice assistants, enabling users to enjoy hands-free control. Additionally, security systems can be programmed to automatically lock doors, turn lights on and off, and call authorities.
Home security is an ideal feature for landlords wishing to boost accessibility in the properties they rent. Currently, the law calls for landlords to make reasonable adjustments and modifications to properties so that tenants with disabilities can live in rented property. These include the installation of wheelchair, access, railings, and reserved parking spots. However, as smart tech continues to advance and expand, it is likely that home automation will soon be part of what is considered to be a "reasonable modification" for legal purposes.
Leverage Health Monitoring Tech for Proactive Care
Health monitoring devices have revolutionized home healthcare, offering convenience and autonomy in the easiest way possible, providing real time data and personalized insights.
Examples of these devices include blood pressure monitors, glucometers and pulse oximeters. The data collected can instantly be shared with healthcare professionals, leading to more proactive care and ensuring people obtain help as soon as warning signs arise.
Not only do healthcare devices assist with physical wellbeing, but they can also help with mental wellbeing, relaxation exercises, mindfulness techniques and stress level monitoring.
In a world where accessibility matters more than ever, the demand for smart devices that facilitate home life without breaking the bank is on the rise. Voice assistants, home security and health monitoring are just the tip of the digital iceberg when it comes to automating the home to be user-friendly for people with disabilities.
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