Smart homes and devices have made life easier for everyone. However, there is one group that can really change their lives if they get the proper smart home facilities. People with disabilities need various adjustments in their lives to function as independently as possible. They can utilize their Spectrum internet plans to get more accessibility and convenience in their lives. Often, smart homes can make all the difference, and even eliminate the need for full-time caretakers.
Of course, all disabilities are different, so the level of independence differs accordingly. However, smart homes and devices are a great help for various disabilities. They help in a variety of ways, whether there are mobility issues, visual impairment, or hearing impairment. Tech companies are working on numerous solutions to make life much easier for differently-abled people, and some of their existing solutions are working quite well. Here are a few ways in which smart homes and smart devices can help people with disabilities.
Voice-Controlled Gadgets & Systems
In many cases, people with accessibility problems need some sort of way to activate appliances and other gadgets in their houses without physically adjusting them. Many smart home systems offer voice-control, so that people simply need to talk to their phone or smart home device to access these gadgets.
This is very helpful, especially for people who cannot get around easily or reach switches and buttons without problems. They can simply instruct their smart home assistant or their phone to operate these devices easily.
Offer Security
Many people are not mobile enough to be vigilant with their property. This leads to various security and safety issues. In addition, people with disabilities may also be easier targets for theft and burglary. Therefore, security is a major concern.
A security system using an array of smart cameras and sensors can really help such people. They can receive alerts and video feeds on their smartphones, and have instant contact with emergency services. This way, they can feel safer and secure their property and personal safety from harm.
Promote Independence
Smart homes help people with disabilities become as independent as they can. From everyday tasks like making coffee and vacuuming to major concerns like safety, there are smart devices for almost everything now. People can set up their homes in such a way that they accommodate their needs and requirements. For example, they can use their voice assistant to activate their coffee maker, get a robot vacuum to do the cleaning, and use smart doorbells to monitor their home’s safety. This helps them become less dependent on caretakers and lets them handle many tasks themselves.
Give Comfort & Company
Often, people may have issues with feeling lonely and isolated. Tech companies are working on artificial intelligence systems which can offer companionship and comfort. These are already in use in some places like elder care homes in various countries. They’ve proven to be quite helpful, especially as they cannot expose vulnerable people to various diseases either.
Companies are constantly working on making these systems as compassionate as possible, so that people are not left isolated and vulnerable. AI technology has improved leaps and bounds over the years, so these systems may become more common soon enough. They can help people with disabilities socialize and communicate, even if they can’t leave their homes or be exposed to other people.
Control Environment
Differently-abled people can also use smart home systems to control the environment around them. Some of them may not be able to adjust the thermostat or switch on lights and such without some strain and effort. They may need to adjust to the environment often, but often stay uncomfortable due to lack of accessibility.
With smart homes, people can simply give their smart home assistant or their smartphone the relevant instructions. This way, they can control the thermostat, lighting, and other aspects of their homes. This ability to create a comfortable environment for themselves can be quite empowering for people with disabilities, so it should be facilitated.
Improve Energy Efficiency
Smart home systems and devices also help keep energy consumption to a minimum. They help monitor energy and allow people to adjust processes accordingly. For example, they can dim lights and adjust the thermostat using their smartphones to control their energy consumption.
This is quite helpful for differently-abled people because they may need to keep their costs and bills as low as possible. They have limited resources and have to spend a large chunk on their medical care. So, smart home systems and devices also help improve energy efficiency.
In conclusion, there are various ways in which smart homes and devices can help people with disabilities. These devices are also developing and improving on a constant basis, and are improving lives everywhere.