Assisting the Physically Challenged

By installing automation systems in the homes of the physically challenged we can bring back their ability to be in control of their own lives. Many insurance companies are looking at these systems to reduce their long term liabilities and provide more equitable settlements for their clients.

Two main categories of systems are available, the retrofit system that can be installed into an existing home and the full custom system that is built into a new home as it is constructed. Both systems can provide a return to semiautonomous living, but the retrofit system will naturally have fewer options available to it because of construction constraints.

An automation system can be used to control motorized windows, window treatments, doors, and any other motorized system in the building. This gives the physically challenged the ability to issue one command to activate an entire series of events.

For example: one command could open the garage door, activate a remote starter on a van, cause the van to open it's door and lower a wheelchair ramp, operate a motorized door to the garage to allow unimpeded access to the van, then when the van pulls out of the garage, automatically close the door, lock the doors to the house, arm the security system, and set back the Climate control system.

This is only one small script that can be run with the push of one button. The possibilities are endless. In addition, as you can see the need for full time live in assistance can be reduced or even eliminated with the proper systems and controls.

Some of these systems are listed below:

• Water powered lifts to carry a client to and from a pool, jet tub, or spa. These lifts will transport a client from his or her wheelchair and place the client in a tub or pool. They are typically hydraulically powered from the water supply system in the building and are safe from any electrical hazard.
  
  
• Lighting control systems can be installed that will automatically, at the press of an oversized button, or with a spoken command control housewide lights or light pathways throughout the building. Now lighting can be controlled with out having to reach or push small toggle switches on the wall. These same lighting control buttons can be interfaced with an automation controller to provide other functions beside lighting. These functions can include whole house scenes including music, video, or motorized systems control.
  
  
• Voice recognition will provide the ability to control systems without having to press buttons or touch screens. By simply saying a wake up word or phrase then a command the client can control almost any system in the building.
  
  
• Elevator controls can call an elevator to the proper floor as the client approaches it. Or as part of a script to save time and steps for a client.
  
  
• Motorized door & window openers allow ventilation and access. In addition, they can automatically close in case of inclement weather.
  
  
• Motorized window treatments can automatically open and close to allow sunlight and privacy as needed. In addition they can automatically close to cut down on the solar heat loading and conserve energy.
  
  
• Driveway ice melting systems can be automated in the Snow belt to provide ice free driveways and walks without shoveling.
  
  
• Electronic door locks can provide security as well as the ability to lock the building or allow emergency access with one command.
  
  
• Remote vehicle starters provide a warm vehicle in the colder climates, and can open doors and ramps if the vehicle is so equipped.

The list of features is virtually endless, we can design and install systems that can provide almost any desired function for our clients.

"By installing automation systems in the homes of the physically challenged we can bring back their ability to be in control of their own lives."