By Peg Cochran
Marketing Communications Manager, Holland Home
Aging brings changes that may make your current home difficult to navigate or potentially unsafe. A smart home is one that uses traditional adaptive tools and smart home technology to create a safe environment. Smart homes make it possible for people to stay in their own homes and remain independent longer than ever before.
What is a smart home?
A smart home is equipped with technological tools and adaptive devices that make the home safer and more comfortable for older adults. These products offer an advantage to caregivers as well, by making their job easier and providing them with peace of mind.
There are options for every room in the house that can be customized to your unique needs, from simple grab bars in the bathroom to high-tech appliances that can be controlled with your mobile device.
Bathroom
The bathroom is one of the most common places for safety issues. Accidents in or around the tub or shower account for more than two-thirds of emergency room visits. And, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, older adults are particularly prone to injury while getting off the toilet. The bathroom can be made a safer place with a few adjustments such as grab bars around the tub or shower and toilet, a no-lip shower, higher toilets and anti-scald faucets. Flooring should be non-slip. In addition, motion activated nightlights are available to make middle of the night trips to the bathroom safer.
Kitchen
Kitchens are the number one area for home fires caused by cooking. Electric stoves and ranges are now available with an automatic shut-off feature that makes cooking safer. There are also devices that will allow you to control your appliances with your smart phone, making it possible to turn off an oven or stove burner remotely.
Living Area and Bedroom
According to the National Institute for Health, falls are the leading cause of injury to seniors. Fall prevention methods include dual handrails along stairs, stair gates, low pile carpeting or wood floors, and raised outlets. Motion activated nightlights are also recommended. Nightlights can also be positioned under the bed and can be programmed to go on as soon as an individual gets out of bed.
Health Safety
Technology has advanced to the point where it’s possible to monitor a person’s vital signs remotely, including blood pressure, weight, heart rate, pulse oximetry, and blood sugars, which allows for preventative and proactive care.
Numerous styles of medication dispensers are available, to keep medications safe, provide auditory and visual reminders, and dispense medication as needed. Some styles can be programmed to communicate with a caregiver as well, ensuring compliance.
“Some of this new technology and many of these adaptive devices are standard in our residences,” said Michael Loughman, Director of Sales for Holland Home, a senior retirement community with three campuses in Grand Rapids. “Other items are available upon request. We care about the safety of our residents and clients and want to help them maintain their independence as long as possible.”
For more information, call Holland Home at 616-643-2730.
