Assistive technology is a powerful tool that can help people with disabilities live more independently. In this case we’re considering the day to day challenges of an NDIS participant with multiple sclerosis. Through the eyes of Hunter, a 40-year-old woman diagnosed with MS, we’ll see how these technologies can make life more manageable. Her condition primarily affects her vision and balance, making it difficult for her to navigate her surroundings. Any activity requiring fine motor skills also poses a challenge. Despite the daily hurdles of life, Hunter is determined to live independently in her own home, for as long as possible.
Hunter’s home has been modified to make movement less challenging – handrails in the bathroom, non-slip flooring in main traffic areas, ramps rather than stairs, easy open cupboards and drawers. As technology advances, smart devices designed to make life at home easier and more convenient offer many benefits to individuals like Hunter facing mobility and dexterity challenges. To her these advancements are life-changing.
Let’s take a look at the smart home devices with the greatest potential to be transformational.
First some helpful resources:
- For the official definition of assistive technology according to the Australian Government, refer to the NDIS website at this page Assistive Technology Guideline.
- Check out the incredible support provided by MS Qld
What benefits does a smart door lock offer those with MS?
A smart digital door lock will make Hunter’s home more secure and easier to access. Traditional locks can be difficult to use, especially when handling keys with limited dexterity. With a smart lock, Hunter can unlock her door using her fingerprint, smartphone, smart watch or a code.
This means Hunter won’t have to struggle with keys, fossicking around in her handbag to locate them only to then struggle to insert the key into the keyhole. Managing the front door lock is all done remotely, via the app or the voice command if a smart home assistant has been installed.
Another valuable feature for Hunter is the ability to provide access codes to trusted individuals, such as caregivers or family members. With regular visits from her medical support team, Hunter can give each person their own unique code, allowing them to enter at the scheduled time without requiring her to physically open the door. She’ll receive a notification through the app when they arrive, letting her feel secure. This feature is especially beneficial for temporary access, whether it’s for a tradesperson fixing something in the house or a friend visiting for a short stay. The code can be set to work only during a specific time frame and easily deleted when it’s no longer needed.
Whenever possible, depending on the existing door, we’ll install a deadbolt smart door lock. For someone with MS, this extra layer of security offers not just peace of mind for them, but also added reassurance for their caregivers.
How can smart lighting improve home safety?
Safe navigation in the home is crucial for Hunter, especially at night or in low-light conditions. Smart lighting systems can be controlled by voice commands (with the setup of a home assistant like Amazon Alexa or Google Home), smartphone apps, or motion sensors, giving Hunter several convenient options.
Motion-activated lights ensure her path is always well-lit, reducing the risk of tripping or falling. Voice-controlled lighting allows her to adjust the brightness and ambiance easily, making her home more comfortable. Smart lighting significantly enhances her safety and ease of movement within her home.
When it comes to smart lighting there are options. We can install smart lighting to the entire house, select rooms or just specific lights. We can supply new smart bulbs, lamps, light-strips and accessories. And we’ll advise whether smart light bulbs or smart switches are best for you. Once we understand your needs we’ll help you choose the best options.
How is a smart video doorbell helpful to those with MS?
To maintain her independence, Hunter needs to manage her home’s security and stay aware of any front door activity. A smart video camera doorbell offers the perfect solution. This device allows Hunter to see who is at the door without needing to approach it, which can be challenging due to her mobility issues. The doorbell’s motion detection enhances security by providing real-time alerts of any activity at her doorstep. With two-way audio, she can communicate with delivery personnel or unexpected visitors, keeping her informed and in control of who enters her home.
Safe and sound with a smart garage door or electric gate opener
A smart garage door or front gate opener offers great convenience for someone with limited mobility. For Hunter, this assistive technology simplifies entering and exiting her home by allowing her to control the garage door or front gate with her smartphone or voice. No more having to fuss around with small garage or gate opener fobs. Or worrying whether the garage or gate is open. From any location she can check her phone and instantly see if everything is locked and secure.
How a smart aircon is convenient and cost-effective
Installing a smart aircon delivers multiple benefits to the NDIS participant. When mobility is limited, it can be hard to get comfortable, especially during the height of summer and winter. Maintaining a comfortable home temperature is easy when you install a smart thermostat.
Maybe you already have an air conditioning system installed. We can upgrade it to a smart aircon system using innovative technology that can be retrofitted to any split system with an infrared remote. Now you can enjoy all the benefits of a smart air conditioner at a fraction of the price! Switch it on and off from the app remotely and easily program it to operate when a particular temperature is reached, both hot and cold.
Or maybe you’re looking for a new air conditioning system. We can install a state-of-the-art smart aircon split system in as many rooms as you need. Our premium models are feature-rich, giving you complete control to cool and heat your home from the app, no matter where you are. This makes it extremely efficient, cutting down on unnecessary costs commonly associated with aircon systems.
Complete control with the installation of a smart home assistant
A smart home assistant significantly enhances Hunter’s independence and quality of life by providing convenience, safety, and control over her home environment, accessible through a single point of contact. Through voice-controlled operations, Hunter can manage smart devices hands-free such as the smart lighting and smart aircon; set reminders to keep her on track and up to date on medications; and even use it for entertainment and communication purposes. Like particular music to be played upon waking? Set a playlist as your alarm rather than a jarring alert. Prefer the lights in the hallway to turn on at a specific time of the morning? It’s easy to program this with a smart home assistant. Want to open the front door for your visitor without leaving the kitchen? Simply ask the smart home assistant and the digital door lock will open. The capabilities to take over daily tasks is endless.
The most popular smart home assistants are Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Apple Home. We have the experience installing all of these models and can also give you advice on which is the best for your home situation.
A day in the life of Hunter, supported by Assistive Technology
Let’s see the practical application of assistive technology by stepping through the everyday tasks someone like Hunter might experience.
7:00 AM
Hunter’s smart home assistant, integrated with her smart lighting system, gradually turns on the bedroom lights to simulate a sunrise, helping her wake up naturally. The smart aircon upgrade also adjusts the thermostat to ensure the room is at a comfortable temperature at all times.
7:10 AM
Hunter uses a voice command to ask her smart assistant to start her morning routine. This includes playing her favourite music and giving her the weather forecast so she can select appropriate clothing.
7:30 AM
Hunter likes having her morning coffee on her front doorstep, where the morning light hits. With cup in hand, she asks her smart home assistant to unlock the front door remotely. Being a smart lock there’s no need to struggle with turning the deadbolt or finding the keys.
9:00 AM
Hunter has a physiotherapy appointment. Her smart home assistant reminds her of the appointment 30 minutes beforehand and informs her when it’s time to leave.
9:30 AM
The video doorbell alerts Hunter that her taxi has arrived. She checks the video doorbell live feed on her smart watch, ensuring it is actually the taxi. Once in the taxi, she locks the door and the front gate remotely.
11:00 AM
Returning home, Hunter opens the front gate with the app, before getting out of the taxi. The smart front gate responds immediately, allowing her to enter without needing to use the gate handle. Using her fingerprint she opens the front door. No more fumbling through a bag for keys or struggling to fit a small key into the lock.
11:15 AM
Hunter enters the house, and the smart home assistant turns on the lights in the hallway and living room, ensuring she has a well-lit path. The digital door locks automatically once she’s inside.
1:30 PM
Hunter spends some time relaxing and asks her smart home assistant to play an audiobook. She can control playback with simple voice commands, making it easy to enjoy her book without physical effort.
3:00 PM
Hunter receives a reminder from her smart home assistant to take her medication. The assistant also alerts her that it’s time for her daily exercise routine. She uses her voice to start a guided exercise program on her smart TV.
6:00 PM
As the light diminishes, Hunter’s smart lighting system adjusts the indoor lights. She can control the brightness and colour temperature with voice commands to create a comfortable ambiance.
6:30 PM
Hunter’s sister arrives for a visit. The video doorbell notifies her, and she checks the live feed before asking the smart home assistant to unlock the door. They enjoy dinner together, and Hunter uses the smart home assistant to play music in the background.
9:00 PM
Hunter winds down for the evening. With a simple request of the smart home assistant, she turns off the lights in the living room and turns on the lights in the bedroom and bathroom.
9:30 PM
Before going to sleep, Hunter quickly checks the app to confirm the front door and front gate is locked and all the lights are off. She asks the smart home assistant to set the alarm for the next morning. The smart thermostat has been programmed to adjust automatically to a cooler temperature for a comfortable night’s rest.
This is assistive technology, helping on a daily basis.
Hunter’s journey towards greater independence is supported by smart home technology. The smart digital door lock, smart lighting, smart video camera doorbell, and smart garage door opener each play a key role in enhancing her security, convenience, and ease of living. These devices help Hunter live independently, with confidence and dignity, showing how assistive technology can transform lives and empower individuals with disabilities, such as MS.
How Smarter Homes Australia empowers NDIS Participants to enjoy a more independent and stress-free home environment
It’s a privilege to enhance the lives of many through the installation of assistive technology in homes. Daily we are given access to NDIS participants’ homes and lives and it’s a service we hope to continue providing for years ahead. We look forward to extending these benefits to those with cerebral palsy, which could be you or the person under your care.
Like to learn more about the best assistive technology solutions for your home, take advantage of our free quote offer. We’ll come to the home, evaluate the situation, and provide you with a personalised plan for your consideration. Please contact us and schedule your free quote or installation today.
Assistive Technology for NDIS Participants FAQs
- Do you work with NDIS participants?
Yes we do, all the time. Refer to our specific guide to NDIS participants for more information.
- Do you work with NDIS participants outside of SE Qld?
No unfortunately we don’t. We only service South-East Queensland for installation, however we can provide products-only through our Smarter Store.
- How do I know what Assistive Technology is funded through NDIS?
As a starting point, check out the NDIS website information provided at this address – What assistive technology do we fund? Or ask your Plan Manager, Support Worker or Occupational Therapist who should have the experience to answer your specific questions. At Smarter Homes Australia we currently support all NDIS participants who are plan and self-managed with their funding, however we cannot provide the approval that is required from your support team.
- What are the next steps and how do I arrange a quote?
After taking a look at the services we offer, simply fill out the contact form on our website and let us know what you’re interested in. From there our team can provide you with an in-person or online quote to discuss further with your support team.
