I recently returned from the Missouri Assistive Technology Power Up Conference in Columbia, MO. I have started wanting to go to workshops in the areas of AT I have had little professional exposure. One of these areas is Home Automation and Smart Design. When approaching the idea of the recent products in Home Automation, I think it is important for me to state how much the wireless and “internet of things” trend has completely turned the world of Assistive Technology and Universal Design upside down. Products that are coming out quicker then the AT field can test. However, it is also an exciting time to see how much the “internet of things” has opened the doors for people with disabilities to stay in their homes longer while also increasing the quality of their lives, despite the presence of a disability. It is also a time to pay attention to what the leaders in AT and Universal Design are saying about the expanding reality of smart homes. I had the opportunity to listen to David Baker from Missouri Assistive Technology highlight the best in Home Automation and Smart Homes. Here are a few of my devices that are currently on the market from reputable companies:
1. Pixie Points: Helps You Find Lost Keys
2. The Nest: A Smart Thermostat
3. Goji Smart Lock:
4. Home Depot’s Smart Home Hub
