STACK #245 March 2025

SMART HOME SOLUTIONS FOR ASSISTED LIVING

TECH FEATURE

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Smartwatches and personal alarms

Those living alone are well aware of the importance of immediate contact in the event of a fall or medical emergency, and fortunately there are some handy, highly portable and wearable devices that can send out an SOS at the touch of a button. Devices equipped with fall detection are a must-have, and

emergency contact after several minutes. Otherwise, pressing the side button five times will activate an SOS. Personal alarms are another great safety device. The Swann ActiveResponse Personal Alarm can be worn on a lanyard, clipped to a key ring, or kept in a pocket, so it’s always on hand if needed.

Swann ActiveResponse Alarm

Samsung Galaxy Watch7

you will find many smartwatches with this feature, like the Samsung Galaxy Watch7. If the wearer suffers a hard fall and is unable to move, the Watch7 will automatically send an alert to the primary

The pull of a ring activates a loud siren to attract attention, and the touch of a button can send an SMS alert to an emergency contact that includes the user’s exact GPS location.

Roller shade and curtain drivers

Smart HVAC controllers Maintaining a comfortable temperature at home is crucial for good health and comfort. Smart thermostat and air conditioner controllers can adjust settings automatically, or be controlled remotely via an app by the resident or caregiver. Location-based on/off (geofencing) can also be set up to activate based on a connected phone’s geo-location. Many controllers support Alexa, Google, and Apple Homekit for easy smart home integration, seven-day scheduling, and hands-free voice control. Plus, heating and cooling are notorious power guzzlers, so installing a smart controller also helps to reduce energy consumption and costs.

Aqara Roller Shade Driver E1 • Wired and wireless installation options • One button control • Preset opening/closing • Up to two months battery life • 4x adapters • Compatible with Apple Home, Google and Alexa

These motorised devices raise and lower blinds or draw and close curtains with the touch of a button or a voice command. Those with limited mobility or dexterity can easily control shades and curtains via an app, voice command, or scheduled automation, reducing the need for manual adjustments and physical exertion. They are compatible with existing shades and easy to install, with no wiring required, and adapters that fit a majority of cords are often included. Automated scheduling lets shades adjust throughout the day for optimal natural light, temperature, and comfort. Moreover, smart integration with lighting and HVAC

Sensibo Sky Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Wi-Fi Controller • Compatible with air-con or heat pumps with remote control • Control an air conditioner from anywhere • Remote monitoring of temperature and humidity • Seven-day scheduling and geofencing • Works with Alexa and Google Home

Sensibo Air Smart Split-System Air Conditioner Controller • Compatible with any split-system type air-con • Control and monitor an air-con from anywhere • Unlimited seven-day scheduling • Works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, IFTTT, Samsung SmartThings

Switchbot Curtain Rod 3 • Easy installation • Multiple control options in-app • Silent mode • Compatible with Apple Home

systems helps regulate indoor

temperature, reducing energy consumption and lowering bills.

18 MARCH 2025

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