In this guest article, Tim Barbary from Bay Camera and Communications LTD, one of the leading installers of assistive technology in the UK, discusses how devices in the home can help individuals living with disabilities regain their independence and make their home work for them.
In an ever-evolving world driven by technological advancements, it’s essential that everyone has the opportunity to lead a life of independence, comfort, and dignity within the walls of their own home. Assistive technology has paved the way for a wide range of innovative solutions that can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals living with disabilities.
Assistive Technology
With assistive technology, the home can adapt to individual needs, and independence is not only preserved but enhanced. The home can be controlled by iPad or Voice control giving people living with disability the ability to control their own environment, or at a certain time of the day the home can automatically awaken with lights turning on, blinds opening, TV turning on, internal door opening, bed going to the upright position, the realms are endless.
Internal and External Power Assisted Doors
Instead of struggling with doors, you press a button on your smartphone, use voice commands or simply approach the door and it swings open effortlessly. They’re not only convenient but also essential for those with mobility issues or who are wheelchair dependent.
Electronic Windows and Blinds
Electronic windows and blinds provide individuals living with disabilities the convenience of controlling natural light and privacy, making their living spaces more comfortable and accessible.
Turning Lights On and Off
With the power of technology, individuals can control their home’s lighting with ease, to create a cosy ambiance or brighten up their space.
Operating the TV and Audio Systems
TV and audio systems play a crucial role in preventing loneliness for individuals with disabilities, offering a source of entertainment and connection to the outside world from the comfort of their homes. With voice-control or eye-gaze technology, individuals can take charge of their own tv and radio.
Calling and Operating Lifts within the Home
In many homes of individuals living with disabilities, through-floor lifts are installed, granting access throughout the entire property. Assistive technology enables individuals to independently call and operate these lifts, enhancing their autonomy and mobility within their home
CCTV and Intruder Alarms
It is vitally important that we all feel safe in our own home. CCTV and intruder alarms give peace of mind and control over the home’s security and can also be installed to enable loved ones and caregivers the option to remotely monitor well-being and safety. This technology provides an extra level of assurance for a person’s support network.
Electronic Gates and Garage Doors
Electronic gates and garage doors make it possible to grant access to guests, carers and loved ones without even leaving your seat. Plus, it adds an extra layer of security, empowering the individual to have control over who enters their home. This is particularly valuable when considering the presence of a care team, therapists, occupational therapists, and other professionals who provide essential care, support, and ongoing rehabilitation for people living with disabilities.
Power-Assisted (Profiling) Beds
Power-assisted profiling beds are invaluable assistive technology for people living with disabilities. They promote comfort, independence, and improved quality of life by addressing the unique challenges and requirements of individuals with mobility issues. These beds not only enhance the well-being of the users but also ease the caregiving responsibilities of their support network, making them an essential component of accessible and accommodating home environments.
Technology has opened up a world of possibilities for people living with disabilities. Devices are controlled through an iPad or iPhone using voice control or eye gaze, empowering individuals by providing them with intuitive and accessible means to control their environment, fostering independence and enhancing their overall quality of life.
Tim recently visited the team at PLG Consultants, to provide a full day training, following the session, Head of Architecture, Andrew Vallis said; “Tim shared really valuable insights during our training session. His advice on understanding the full scope of the rapidly changing technologies available has proven to be immensely useful for our team. We often encounter client inquiries regarding future-proofing their homes, so it was useful to understand how we can future proof builds, offering the flexibility to install components at a later date if needed.
Sessions like this support us in offering the very best service to our clients in this fast-paced industry.”