An incredible array of innovative technology is available to help you remain independent and safe in your home. The smart technology gives older people more confidence in their ability to live alone, and it’s helping many families avoid or delay the heart-wrenching decision to move an aging parent from his or her home to a nursing facility. The technology available is not only to assist seniors, but those unable to live independently. While there is still a need for carers in certain cases, it allows pressure to be lifted from carers or families of the person in need.
Here’s a list of smart technology that can assist you in your home (or someone you may be caring for):
Bed and chair fall guard
If you’re concerned about a vulnerable person living at home falling out of their bed or chair, the fall guard alert system can put your mind at ease. The Fall Guard Alert System will alert you if your loved one leaves their bed or chair. It has a tamper-proof monitor that can only be deactivated with a key. It also has a voice prompt. This alert system is best for small facilities, caregivers or at home. This system functions with weight-sensing bed and chair pressure pads, floor mats, or early warning seat belts. The caregiver is notified by an audible and visual alert.
Flood sensor
Flood sensors are a smart option for your bathroom, as it’s easy to turn on a tap, walk away and be distracted by something else. A flood sensor can alert you of a threatening flood, or a rapid temperature rise or drop. Most flood sensors are maintenance-free without the need for professional installation, making it an easy option for those in need of care.
The water sensor can immediately alert you if it detects water through its gold probes or from a wired remote probe and the built-in alarm siren will help you react quickly in case of a flood, rapid temperature change, or tamper.
Robot vacuum cleaner
If wanting to remain at home and independent, there needs to be someone, or something, taking care of the cleaning. Robot vacuum cleaners allow you to have a clean home without exerting energy and completing the somewhat strenuous task of pushing around a vacuum cleaner. If searching for a robot vacuum cleaner, don’t be fooled by the prices- they can be expensive, but the higher price tag doesn’t automatically guarantee quality. They start at around $149 but can be priced up to ten times more than that.
There are certain features that you (or the person buying for you) should look out for. These include:
- Stair detection
A feature that’s now standard across almost all models, helps the robot sense when it has reached a ledge or step so it can stop and avoid damage.
- Virtual wall
Used to create an invisible barrier, for blocking off any open doorways or other areas you don’t want the robot vacuum cleaner to enter.
- Programmable times
This function allows you to set times of the day or week to run the vacuum cleaner. Helpful if you’re wanting to set it to run when you’re not at home.
- Charging
This function means that when the battery is low, the robot vacuum finds its way to the charger and docks automatically.
- Noise
Make sure you’re aware of the noise the vacuum cleaner makes before you purchase it. Robot vacuums are generally quieter than standard vacuums, however some have a high-pitched whistle and others make a mechanical grinding noise, nothing is wrong with the vacuum cleaner although it may be enough to annoy you, or pets if you have any.
- Remote control
Most models come with a remote control to change the settings or direct the vacuum around the room. However if you think the robot needs to be controlled too much, then an ordinary vacuum cleaner is the better and cheaper option.
Liftware
Do you or someone you know have trouble eating due to shaky hands? An innovative tool called Liftware is a stabilising handle and a selection of attachments (that include a soup spoon, everyday spoon, and fork) designed to help people with hand tremor eat more easily. If you do experience shaking hands and spillages, this might be exactly what you need.
These tools and technology can assist you or someone you know in remaining independent in their own home and in turn, regaining positive self-esteem and confidence.
Our mission at ConnectAbility is empowering people to achieve their goals, dreams and aspirations. If you would like further information on ConnectAbility and our services, please contact our office on 4962 1000.
