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If you have parents in their later years of life, you may find yourself faced with the challenge of letting them continue living at home unassisted. Many older individuals want to remain in their home for as long as possible; however, as they age, they may physically begin to slow down, often resulting in poor eyesight, stiffness or sore muscles and joints, and general fatigue.

Though these issues may be minor, they can often impair mobility and lead to an increased risk of falling, which is the leading cause of emergency room visits in the U.S. and accounts for more than 75% of all accidental deaths in people over the age of 65.

According to the United Stated Census Bureau, there are more than 44.7 million individuals over the age of 65 in the U.S. Of that number, roughly 11.3 million individuals prefer to stay living in their home. To help your family members succeed, certain safety and convenience measures can be taken.

Ease The Aging Process with Home Automation

To help with day-to-day tasks, installing home automation software may be a sensible decision. Automating certain functions in the home helps to simplify common everyday tasks and can offer an additional layer of safety and security for elderly individuals and their caregivers. Installing “smart home hubs” allows homeowners to control various appliances as well as lighting, heating and security systems with the touch of a button or the sound of a voice. These hubs can even be programmed to brew your morning cup of coffee or serve as medication reminders for those with medical conditions.

With a variety of software to choose from, customizing your home automation depends largely on your needs. For basic automation, devices and appliances can be managed through a wireless internet connection. Thermostats, light switches, and even window blinds can be controlled through “smart” electrical outlets. Simply put, the more automated a home is, the less mobile an older adult must be in order to live comfortably in their home.

Comfort isn’t the only reason many senior citizens prefer to remain in their own homes. For many, choosing to live in an assisted living facility can cost more than three times the price of living at home. By installing a whole-home automation system, like the one we offer from Control4, not only are you cutting down on monthly expenses, but you’re adding value to your parent’s home should you decide to sell in the future.

Automation for Additional Security

Home automation isn’t just convenient and cost-effective, it also ensures a sense of safety and security for both you and your parent. Home automation offers a variety of security features, including:

• Video monitoring
• Locks
• Alarm systems
• Outdoor lighting

With a burglary occurring approximately every 18 seconds in the United States, having an automated security system can help protect elderly individuals from harmful situations both inside and out of the home. Real-time video monitoring offers peace of mind for caregivers, as they are able to access footage from their tablets or smartphones remotely. Additionally, elderly individuals can grant their children or caregivers access to manage various safety functions, such as programming thermostats, televisions, and security systems.

Selecting a System That’s Right for You

Whether it’s one function or whole-home automation, there are many options to meet your expectations and desired level of involvement.

A.V.E. offers a variety of home automation systems designed to eliminate stress and improve quality of life for young and old homeowners alike. Based out of Wisconsin Rapids and serving the Central Wisconsin area, we provide solutions for every room of your home so that you can live comfortably and conveniently. For older adults and their caregivers, our home automation systems offer a sense of empowerment and flexibility that may otherwise be restricted in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

For more information on how home automation from A.V.E. can help your parent live comfortably at home, call us at (715) 423-4800.