Smart Device Ideas & Basic Need Resources for the Disabled

There are seasons to the year, with fall officially started, but there are no seasons when it comes to assisting people with disabilities. Disability in the senior community can start with a fall, a stroke, a heart attack, disease, or many other factors.  Depending on the disability, these "smart devices" could be a comfort to those in need.  

Echo

In the home, an Echo is a voice command devise that can be used to add a reminder for taking medications, or as a second timer for baking a casserole. This hands-free device can help compose a shopping list or do an internet search, all from the comfort of the chair or bed.  Just "ask it"  and it will do about anything you ask it to do.  

Ring Smart Doorbell

A Ring Smart Doorbell has a motion-sensor camera and will show who's at the door, so you can decide whether to answer or not.  If the disability makes it hard to get up out of a chair or you are wheelchair-bound, this could make a huge impact by causing you less pain and stress trying to get to the door when it's not important to you.  

Smart Thermostat

Have you ever been awakened in the middle of the night because you are cold?  A "smart thermostat" can be adjusted from an i-phone.  Don't get out of bed to turn up the heat.  Stay under the covers and turn up the heat.  You will be toasty soon.  

Echo Connect

The Echo Connect can call emergency services for you.  All you need to do is say "Alexa, call 911"  You don't have to wear a device around your neck if you "fall down and can't get up".

These products can be found on Amazon but there are many brands and styles to suit your taste and budget.  I do not promote these brands nor do I work for the company.

Basic Need Resources

These are just a few electronics that can help seniors with disabilities, but did you know that consumer's lives can be impacted by working with Disabled Resource Services.  Even the basics can be a huge need for some.  

Bet You Didn't Know

Top 5 Requests for Toiletries

Did you know they keep a supply of (primarily) sample-size toiletries at our Fort Collins and Loveland offices for their low-income and homeless consumers? Here are the 5 products most in demand:

1. Toothbrush                  4. Razors                           
2. Toothpaste                  5. Bar soap

3. Toilet paper

Personal hygiene is an important aspect of self-esteem and self-confidence. If you have unopened toiletries or extra toilet paper that you can spare, please consider donating them by dropping them by either of the DRS offices. Questions? Please don't hesitate to contact them.  To learn more or to donate to Disabled Resource Services, please visit the website.

Fort Collins office: Terry, 970-482-2700

Loveland office: Denise, 970-667-0816

If you know a senior who could benefit from one of these devices or has a basic need, please reach out and pass the information on.  We all need to do our share to make sure our seniors are cared for and able to stay in the home they choose.  

If you know of a senior who needs to downsize or has passed, please reach out to me for resources.

Margaret @ Turnkeyrealtyco.com