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Individual Home Automation Devices that Make a Big Difference
from:You don’t have to install a full security system or fully automate your home or the home of a loved one to make an impact on the quality of life. There are several inexpensive home automation devices you can install yourself that will make a huge impact in the lives of the elderly or disabled. In the following paragraphs, we’ll take a look at some simple steps you can take to make life easier for yourself or for someone you love.
Door Answering Systems
If getting to the door is a challenge for you or for someone you love, there are various devices on the market that can make answering the door easier and even safer. For example, there are devices that integrate the doorbell with the home phone so that when the doorbell rings, the resident can simply answer the phone to learn who is at the door. What’s more, he or she can then open the door to the visitor by pushing just one key on the telephone. There are also video versions of this type of phone so that the resident can see who is at the door without having to get up. For residents who may have difficulty inserting a key into a door when they are arriving or leaving the home, you might consider installing a keypad so that a code can be entered in lieu of having to open the door with a key.
Automate Appliances, Lights, and Window Treatments
There are a vast number of devices that can be operated by the use of a handheld remote control. Some of these devices are simply to promote convenience, yet many of them are designed to make life easier for the elderly and for the disabled as well. There are many websites devoted to such devices and you can easily research them online as to features and prices. In fact, you can also integrate timers to turn certain appliances or devices on and off at pre-programmed times. For those who may want more independence, though, remote control may be the way to go.
Audio Assistance
Another great home automation concept is through the use of audio commands so that the person does not have to get up and down to perform simple tasks. For example, home thermostats can be programmed using the voice and there are units that will also announce the temperature so that the resident does not have to get up and look. This is especially helpful for those residents who may have declining eyesight and may not be able to see the numbers clearly. Along the same line, you may opt for a voice controlled telephone caller id system in which the caller’s name is announced rather than simply displayed.
Home automation can be a great way to upgrade your home or the home of someone you love who may need a little extra assistance.
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