Even though IoT and smart home devices were not specifically made with PWD and the elderly in mind, they would greatly benefit from the convenience these devices have to offer. Here are a few assistive technologies that we think would be a great help for them.
For people with disability
Apps like Seeing AI make use of artificial intelligence and the iPhone’s camera to allow people with visual impairment to interact with their surroundings. Meanwhile, Samsung has developed a feature called Relumino Mode that would help people with low vision to see things clearer on supported smartphones and a new line of smart TVs that were launched earlier this year.
For those with speech impediments–Cisco, in partnership with VoiceITT, has launched an AI-powered automatic speech recognition tool that allows people with non-standard speech to better communicate during virtual meetings through captions and transcription.
From Amazon Official Website
Since people who are hard of hearing mainly rely on visual aids, devices like the Amazon Echo Show would be a great addition to their smart home setup. Moreover, an ordinary smart bulb can be configured to change colors depending on various triggers like a fire alarm, security breach, or if someone rang the doorbell.
Any device that would allow people with mobility needs to control various aspects of their home would certainly come in handy. Some of these tech include voice assistants, smart doorbells, and smart blinds.
For the elderly
Even though it may seem like the objective behind wearables is to cater to fitness buffs, a lot of its features are actually advantageous to the elderly. In addition to tracking various health-related metrics, some of these devices–notably, the Apple Watch Series 9–are equipped with safety features such as fall detection that can automatically notify pre-set contacts if the person suffered a fall.
Our advanced-aged loved ones can benefit from having early warning devices in their home, such as smart smoke detectors. Devices like the Google Nest Protect can detect smoke and carbon monoxide, sound off an alarm (siren and/or voice alert) to notify the folks at home, and can even automatically send out a call for help to friends, family, and neighbors that are registered on the emergency contact list.
From Eufy Philippines Official Website
Companies like Eufy have a wide range of products that keep our elderly loved ones safe and protected. From smart locks that can be configured to automatically lock themselves based on triggers, to indoor cameras that aid in keeping an eye out for our lolos and lolas, as well as smart doorbells with built-in cameras that would allow them to identify who’s at the front door and interact with them even at a distance.
Lastly, keeping track of what medicines to take, when to take them, and how many can be a bit overwhelming, especially for older folks. Luckily, automated pill dispensers are now a thing and these devices can be configured through an app to give out the correct medication, with the right quantity, at the opportune time, every time.
A smarter and more inclusive quality of life
Thanks to the innovation in the tech industry and the focus on inclusivity, disabilities and old age are becoming less of a hindrance to having a productive and fruitful life. With the help of these smart devices and a fiber-fast Internet connection delivered by PLDT Home Fiber Plus plans, friends and family of seniors and PWDs can rest assured knowing that there are measures in place to keep their loved ones safe and protected.