When you first learn about smart home technology, it may be intimidating to think about adding these features to your home. If you have not interacted with a smart device before, it can seem like a big next step to integrate it into your home. Even more so, it may seem like a bigger challenge explaining to a senior who does not keep up with the latest technology about how to use the products. But the truth is, smart home technology has taken off for a reason; this technology is easy to use, intuitive and adds convenience to many everyday tasks. All these reasons are a testament to why it has become so widely adopted across the U.S. In fact, by 2022, the U.S. is expected to have 63 million connected smart homes.
Whether you are a tech-enthusiast or someone who is trying to configure a safer lifestyle to support an aging family member, there are smart home technology devices to suit your need. If you are concerned about a family member who is living alone or is alone for long periods of time throughout the day, there are many emerging smart home features that ensure their safety and independence.
Smart Home Security Surveillance
When away from home, you can stay rest assured that your loved one is safe with the help of smart home security surveillance. Discreet security cameras can be expertly placed outside of your home to provide insight into who is coming and going. Your loved one can also have a sense of security knowing that they can monitor who is at the home’s entranceways.
Sensors can also be placed on doors and windows to alert homeowners if something is left ajar. You’ll be happy to know that you can also have access to these notifications so you can lend a helping hand if needed. This may be an especially useful feature if dealing with someone who lives with Alzheimer’s disease, which is often characterized by wandering. When it comes to added security, there is also a ‘Panic’ feature that will alert the authorities if there is a sign of trouble (if there is a third-party monitoring feature).
Smart Lighting
Falls are always a topic of concern for aging seniors. According to the CDC, every second of every day, an older adult (age 65+) suffers a fall, making it a leading cause of injury and even death in this age group. With smart home lighting, you can illuminate dark hallways and entryways to reduce the risk of an accident occurring. Smart light bulbs, dimmers and switches enable you to program when the lights go on and off so you can create a schedule that works for you or your loved one. In addition, you can add smart lighting on a motion-detection setting to mitigate fall-related accidents.
Smart Locks
With smart locks, you’ll never have to worry about unlocked doors in the home! In addition to providing a new layer of security, this is also a great home essential for seniors who do not want to fumble around with keys to access their homes. Smart locks are touch screens or push buttons, which means homeowners can control them right from their devices or keypad. Homeowners can arm the alarm system from their smartphone and receive a text alert when someone is at the front door. Then they can choose to let them in or alert the authorities if necessary.
This is also a functional feature for seniors who may have a caregiver or doctor coming in and out of the home. You can also enable alert notifications for when a door is accessed or left open so there is less worry for everyone.
Smart Fire & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
In the event of a fire or carbon monoxide leak, smart alarms will act quickly. Once this is detected, a loud alert will play over the home’s audio system and inform homeowners in which room the danger is. For an added layer of protection, you can also add others to the alarm notification.
Remote Access Control
In addition to your loved one having complete control of their smart home features, you can also assist and monitor if needed. All automation features can be controlled by an app or web interface even when away from the home.
At Lifetronic Systems, we create a custom plan that is right for you and your family. After understanding your goals and unique preferences during your free consultation, we create a custom home plan and budget specifically designed for your needs. If you’re ready to learn more about professional smart home systems, contact us here.
