Home Sweet Smart Homes for Veterans

Approximately four million veterans have disabilities as a result of a disease or injury during active military service, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Due to these injuries, it may be difficult for them to do everyday tasks at home. Adding smart technology and devices into a home can make it easier for veterans to secure and control their homes, especially those with disabilities.  In some workplaces, smart technology has also been adopted to make it more accessible to veterans. The little things that these smart devices can do can make a big difference in the lives of those who need them for mobility and protection. 

Feel more safe and secure

Security at home is a priority for veterans.  For some, their dogs provide home security because they can alert and help their owner if someone is at the door or there’s an intruder inside the house.  In the case of smart homes, smart door locks, smart cameras, and sensors provide another layer of security. Smart door locks are resistant to lock picking compared to traditional door locks.  It is also easier to open since one does not need to fish out his or her keys and just enter a pin code.

Smart cameras also provide home security to veterans because they make it effortless to identify the person at the door.  The motion-based recording capacity of the cameras can also record what is happening in the house, which is beneficial whether you are inside or outside the house.  For instance, if you go to work, you can check on the dog at home. Meanwhile, if you are recovering from an injury and have limited mobility, cameras are one way to make sure that you stay safe all day, especially if other family members have access to these cameras.  In the event of a medical emergency, they can send for help.

Easier everyday tasks

Some of the features of a smart home such as smart thermostats, motion sensors, and lighting can make everyday tasks easier.  When changing the thermostat, you do not need to look for the remote or reach the thermostat switch, rather, you can control the thermostat by using your smartphone. This option is particularly significant to veterans who underwent amputations as they need to regulate their body’s temperature from time to time.  Moreover, they can control which room’s temperature needs to be adjusted so that everyone at home is comfortable.

Smart homes can also include motorized furniture and appliances that provide easier access for veterans, especially those who are recovering from injury or using wheelchairs. Meanwhile, being able to control lighting from a smartphone allows veterans who are less mobile to control their home surrounding to their liking.  Being in control of this aspect of their lives improves their self-confidence, which is instrumental to their recovery and transition.

If you’re a veteran recovering at home or transitioning to civilian life, smart home technology offers solutions at your fingertips to make your life easier.  The little changes that smart homes can offer you can improve the quality of your everyday life. They make your home a safer and more accessible place to live in.

Visit our job board regularly to advertise suitable positions for veterans. 

By Lucy Wyndham