TECH TALK

Top smart home innovations to watch for accessible living market

Home Instead, a provider of senior inhome care services, recently released survey results, which showed that seniors in particular are learning to embrace technology more than ever. One in four seniors said they felt more comfortable using new technology than they did just one year ago. At the same time, technology innovations have continued to serve homeowners of any age living with disabilities. The following are home tech innovations to watch:

Connected Monitoring Systems

More connected monitoring systems are hitting the market, providing peace of mind to homeowners aging-in-place. Examples include whole-home electrical monitoring systems that connect to an electrical panel in order to track energy usage. Connected leak detection devices continuously check for leaks in plumbing systems. In addition to tech that monitors home equipment and systems, newer smart devices are available that can be installed in a home that detect falls and automatically places a call for help.

Sengled’s smart bulb can track sleep and heart rate.

Image: Sengled

HOME-ASSISTANCE ROBOTS

Home-assistance robots are a relatively new innovation. The use of these robots are now being explored for potential in a variety of environments, including senior living communities and homes of individuals with disabilities or who are aging-in-place. Most recently, Nationwide and Labrador Systems launched a multi-state pilot program that will explore the capabilities of the Labrador Retriever, a new personal robot designed to empower individuals to live more Independently, as well as provide support to caregivers.

Smart Lighting Developments

We’ve come a long way since the invention of The Clapper. Today’s smart lighting innovations include tunable lighting, lighting that can be controlled by the wave of a hand over a switch on the wall and much more. The most recent product unveiled is smart bulbs that provide biometric measurement tracking of heart rate, body temperature and other vital signs, as well as sleep tracking and fall detection.

FULLY INTEGRATED SMART DOORS & HARDWARE

Partnerships between video doorbell companies, along with doors and hardware manufacturers, are leading to inventions such as connected exterior door systems. Key features of these doors include integrated technology, such as smart locks, sensors that determine if the door is locked or unlocked, motion sensors and more. Although these doors are connected to a home’s electrical system and Wi-Fi, built-in battery backup ensures continuous connection for up to 24 hours in the event of a power outage.