Smart Homes Make Life Easier for People With Disabilities

The days where smart technology was reserved for wealthy homeowners are long gone. Today, our gadgets and devices are an accepted part of our daily lives. More importantly, the tech that was once a novelty has now been refined and made usable by virtually everyone. Some, such as home security, smart hubs, and app-enabled lighting have given us more freedom within our residences. Nowhere is this more prevalent than within the disabled community.

Today’s Tech, Made Domestic

As recently as 10 years ago, many of us were completely mesmerized by home automation. Now, we’ve gotten used to it and have even learned how to master these advances and use them to our advantage. Using our voice-controlled smart home hub or downloaded phone apps, we can control our world with little to no effort.

One example of smart technology that makes sense for people with disabilities is a smart home security system. Video doorbells, floodlights, and cameras can all work together to help us keep tabs on our homes and, perhaps more importantly, allow our loved ones to check in on us without being invasive. As an added benefit, having a security system already installed on your home might make it more appealing when and if you choose to sell.

Smart lighting is another important feature in homes for people with disabilities. Light bulbs connected through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth are, according to Constellation Energy Resources, fully customizable. They are also programmable and low energy. Combined, this means being able to utilize added light where you need it most. Motion-sensor lights on the stairs, hallways, or closets also allow you to better see obstacles in your path.

Something as simple as a smart thermostat can also have a profound and positive effect on your daily life. This is especially true if you suffer from issues like arthritis or cerebral palsy. Both of these physical conditions may be eased with warmer temperatures. Flint Rehab explains further that those with cerebral palsy often have issues regulating their body temperature. Using a smart home thermostat lets you adjust the ambient temperature as needed without having to maneuver around your home.

Smart shades, curtains, and blinds are also recommended by the mobility blog, Rolling Without Limits. This lets you take control over the amount of natural light coming into your home. If you need to sleep during the day, for example, you can shut your shades. Similarly, if your home feels a bit dim and dreary, you can open the blinds to let the light in. You do all of this from an app installed on your smartphone.

How to Choose Smart Home Technology

Before you spend a bunch of money upgrading your home, make sure that you are investing in items you need. Ask yourself first if it will benefit you, and then if it will improve the value of your home, which is especially important if you plan to sell in the next couple of years. If you’re still not sure, talk to your doctor and real estate professional for more advice on both of these considerations. Louis Parrish understands your real estate needs better than anyone, so make sure to reach out if you’re planning on selling or buying down the line.

Technology has come a long way in the last decade. Things that were mesmerizing to us just a few years ago are now commonplace and more beneficial than we could have imagined. As a homeowner with a disability, the tech tools listed above can help you live a more independent life. And, as a future home seller, they may return on your investment in more than just added mobility.

Image via Pexels