Having a sense of independence is for most people, and integral part of everyday life. We value our ability to do things for ourselves, accomplish tasks, build careers, friendships and relationships, and progress generally in life. For those living with a disability, the craved independence of life is sometimes a struggle, and although there are structures in place such as carers and public infrastructures that make everyday tasks for disabled people easier, these can sometimes require a lot of reliance. In terms of being a homeowner, it is imperative for people with disabilities to make their homes accessible so that they can live their home life restriction free, self-reliant or in any way they choose.
A huge part of modern-day living means using the aid of technology, as it helps us navigate everyday life from networking, organisation and security. Technology has infiltrated all aspects of our lives, from dating to social interaction and even in the world of property. Much to the joy of those who are tech savvy, technology in the home has become increasingly popular. Smart devices enable us to live our home lives with ease, comfort and with a sense of the future. The Internet of Things (IoT) technology has allowed homes to incorporate disability-specific devices to make a disabled individuals life more convenient and improved in a substantial way. The integration of a smart home can really change the use and notion of independence those with disabilities have in their home, and here at We Buy Any House have gathered our top 5 must have gadgets.
Gadget #1- Amazon Echo:
Begin the transformation process by including an Amazon Echo in your home. The device uses voice control to ask questions, commands and set reminders or tasks with absolute ease. From controlling your heating system, lighting and hub switches, the Amazon Echo is a disability friendly device. The assistive technology boosts the lives of those living with disability in their home as it is a liberating device, enabling those to achieve levels of independence despite having physical limitations.
Gadget #2- Electric Front Door Opener:
Manufactured by UK company Record, the electric front door opener is a great disability friendly device to have in the home. It uses a small hand-held radio remote which allows you access to your property. For those who don’t have the ability to use a remote control, the door can be opened using a voice command. Once the door is synced to your smartphone device or Amazon Echo or Alexa, you can simply voice a command and the door will open or close in a single operation.
Gadget #3- Smart Lock:
If individuals such as nurses, therapists, housekeepers or family require access to your home, then a smart lock is an efficient investment. A safer alternative to making key replicas which can ultimately get lost or stolen, the smart lock uses the individual’s smart phone as a key, enabling you to give others temporary or guest admin codes to gain access. You can even restrict the amount of times and number of days certain people enter your home- and this can all be done with little to no movement or effort.
Gadget #4- Smart Lighting:
Lighting in your home enhances accessibility, and lack of visibility can be risky to those who live with disabilities. Smart lighting enables you to have better quality lighting that can be controlled via smartphone or voice command. You can transform the considerably inaccessible appliance to a fitting that can be operated with ease. Smart bulbs also last longer than regular bulbs, so the task of changing your bulbs will not needed to be done as frequently. Various types of lightbulbs can also be controlled even to the level of hue and dimness by the control of a button or voice command- which is great for decreasing sensory overload.
Gadget #5- Smart Plugs:
There’s no bigger burden is there than ensuring outlets are switched off and things are unplugged. For those living with a disability, bending down or walking around the house to finish these tasks can prove difficult. By installing the Hive Hub, you can control various outlets in your home, and perform a range of actions depending on what you want that device to do. The device can be synchronised to outlets such as lamps, coffee machines or curtain and blind systems.
