Assistive Domotics for the Elderly: Home Automation for Seniors
As seniors age, they often experience a decline in mobility. Lack of mobility could be due to arthritis or other joint inflammation, a chronic disease that impacts movement, or even the symptom of cognitive decline.
Previous generations of seniors did not have a lot of options to age in place once their mobility began to decline. When they were no longer able to perform all daily functions, they had few options at their disposal and often lost their independence.
Today, seniors have the option to implement assistive domotics to help them age in place and maintain their independence. Read on to learn more about what assistive domotics is and how it can help seniors.
What Is Assistive Domotics?
Assistive domotics is automation technology used by the disabled or the elderly to assist in controlling devices or events in their environment. Automation can be configured to respond to the senior’s requests or be totally automated and carry out tasks without any input.
There are four basic components to assistive domotics systems:
- Controller
- Devices
- Interface
- Network
The controller is the central part of the system where all of the information about controls and scheduling is stored. Devices are things that are controlled by the system, such as lights, doors, thermostats, and buttons.
The interface is how the senior interacts with the system. It can be a tablet, keypad, TV, or another device. Finally, the network is how the system communicates information between the controller and devices. Networks may be implemented through hardwiring, WiFi, or radiofrequency.
Types of Home Automations
As technology advances, more tasks in a home can be automated or completed with the assistance of technology. In cutting-edge smart homes, robots are even used to help carry out everyday activities.
Today, there are several types of common home automation that can be helpful to seniors.
Automated Thermostats
For seniors with mobility or dexterity issues, adjusting the thermostat may be difficult. With an assistive domotics system, thermostats can be run on automated systems that routinely adjust the temperature throughout the day. Thermostats can also be configured to be controlled remotely, including by voice prompts.
Automated Lights
Improper lighting can create a dangerous environment for seniors and can lead to falls or other injuries. Automated lights can be configured to turn on or off automatically when a senior enters or exits a room. They can also be voice-activated.
Smart Locks
Like automated lights and thermostats, smart locks can be configured to lock automatically or remotely under the control of the senior. Smart locks are a great way to ensure that the senior is protected at all times, even if they forget to lock their doors.
Home Assistants
Home assistants are becoming more popular in the homes of seniors because they are versatile and can be configured to control many different devices. For example, home assistants are usually voice-activated and can play music, make phone calls, answer questions, and even read books.
How Are Assistive Domotics Installed?
Assistive domotics systems can be installed by a professional or an in-need individual with the help of a loved one or caregiver. Hardwired solutions like some lights or security systems usually require the help of a professional.
Other solutions like home assistants or motion sensors can be installed at home by following the instruction manual.
Assistive Domotics Helps Seniors Maintain Their Independence
Assistive domotics systems can often mean the difference between a senior aging in place independently or needing full-time help from others.
Home automation systems are highly customizable so that they can be configured for all needs and ability types. With the right assistive domotics, seniors can continue to complete their everyday activities and happily age in place.
If you or your family member is considering in-home care as part of a plan to age in place, contact Family Matters In-Home Care today for a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to supporting your family and helping older adults enjoy life in the comfort of their own home for as long as possible.
Some of the services offered by Family Matter In-Home Care include: Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, Bed & Wheelchair Transfer Assistance, Companionship, Housekeeping & Meal Preparation, Personal Care, Recovery Care, and Transportation.
Serving the San Francisco Bay Area and Greater San Diego, Family Matter In-Home Care has offices throughout California including: Campbell, CA, Roseville, CA, San Marcos, CA, and San Mateo, CA.
