Smart devices are changing the way that people with disability are living their lives, increasing their independence to perform everyday tasks that they may not have been able to previously do.
What is asmartdevice?
Smartdevices are electronic ‘gadgets’ that can generally connect to other devices via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or other wireless methods. They can be programmed to do specific things, such as turning on the air conditioner or opening the garage door when prompted to by a connected device.
Howsmartconnected devices can help you
With new products being constantly released withsmartenabling technology, the list of everyday tasks that one can perform withsmartconnected devices is growing.
Somesmartproducts that are currently available that make your home more accessible include:
Smartlights
Smartlocks & alarm systems
Smartgarage doors
Smartfans
Smartdoors
Smartappliances (e.g. ovens, air conditioners)
SmartTV’s, speakers & other gadgets
The below video shows how Todd Stabelfeldt usessmartdevices and technology in his everyday life to increase his independence.
Note: In this video, Todd is specifically discussing an Applesmartproduct that he uses, however, there are many alternative brands available that offer a similar product and eBility is not attempting to promote Apple (or any brand) in this article.
How to startlivingsmart
To start setting up yoursmarthome, you first need a ‘central’ device that is microphone enabled and is designed to take commands and interact with the other connectedsmartdevices around the home, such as the ones mentioned in the section above (e.g.smartlights). A common example of this type of device are ‘smarthome hubs’.
Smarthome hubs are an affordable and great way to begin setting up yoursmarthome and can be purchased from many mainstream stores around Australia. The prices can start from as low as $45 and go up to a few hundred dollars, depending on if you want a basic version or one with more features, such as a touchscreen LCD or bigger speakers.
Some popularsmarthome hubs include:
Amazon Echo Dot
Samsung SmartThings Hub
Google Nest Hub
These are just some examples of popularsmarthome hubs and there are many more alternative options available that offer similar functionality, so don’t be afraid to shop around before deciding to purchase one.
Likesmarthome hubs, many smartphones can also act as a ‘central’ device and are able to connect and communicate with othersmartdevices inside your home. The advantage of a smartphone is that they are portable, so could be used (for example) to open your garage from inside your car when you are returning home. We won’t look at any examples of smartphones as they are a relatively common and widespread product.
Image caption: Example ofsmarthome hub that users can give voice commands to, enabling them to control connectedsmarthome devices (e.g. lighting). Photo is of a black Amazon Echosmartspeaker which acts as a 'smarthome hub' when it is connected to the homes wireless network (Wi-Fi).
Will the NDIS fund the purchase of asmartdevice?
The NDIS will generally (commonly) not fund the purchase ofsmartdevices, such as smartphones,smarthubs or smartwatches as they are considered to be mainstream everyday products. However, if there are features built into the device which are specifically related to your support needs and NDIS plan’s goal, they may include the device in your plan.
It is important to note that there is no generic answer to this question, and the approval of an assistive device or technology in your NDIS plan will vary from case to case as each individual situation is unique.