Innovation Spotlight | Technology Supported Housing
by Lori Morphy, SARC Trainer/Resource Developer – Service Delivery, March 17, 2025
Advances in technology can make a big difference in the lives of people experiencing disability – supporting them to be more independent, require less paid support, and participate fully in community life like their same-aged peers.
‘Technology-Supported Independent Living’ refers to the use of various technologies and devices to help individuals live independently and safely. While most people use technology in their homes and day to day lives, this can be a particularly great tool for people with disabilities.
Some examples of technology include:
- Smart Home Technology: Smart thermostats, lighting, voice-controlled devices (like Amazon Alexa or Google Home), and smart locks, all of which can be controlled remotely or through voice commands, making it easier to manage the home environment.
- Health Monitoring Systems: Wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches) that track heart rate, activity levels, or blood sugar levels, along with sensors that monitor falls or other emergencies, alerting support staff or emergency services when help is needed.
- Remote Monitoring: Cameras, sensors, and other devices can be used by support staff or family members to remotely check on a person’s wellbeing, ensuring that they are safe without being physically present all the time.
- Robotic Assistance: In some cases, robots or automated systems can help with basic tasks like cleaning, cooking, or medication reminders.
Many of these technologies can be set up through apps on tablets and phones and adapted for individual needs. By combining a variety of technologies, people with disabilities can live more independently, maintain autonomy, and engage with the world in ways that are important to them. Check out these videos to see technology-supported independent living in action:
In Montreal, a new smart home was built in 2024 to support eight young people with autism:
Examples like these are becoming more common, and the list of companies and organizations that offer smart home technology that is tailored to the needs of people with disabilities is growing rapidly.
EnablingTech.ca is a free community-based resource that started in Ontario to share information about different technology options. While they don’t sell the technology, they have curated a collection of recommendations to get you started.
Also in Ontario, the Windsor-Essex Family Network started the ‘My Home, My Choice’ initiative in 2010. Their website includes resources and information about supporting people to live more independently with the help of technology.
Further south, SimplyHome https://www.simply-home.com/, based out of the United States, champions the use of technology to support independent living. According to their website:
SimplyHome designs and installs innovative and affordable technology solutions that transform how we care for individuals with disabilities, aging adults, and veterans. Our technology empowers individuals to live their own self-determined lifestyle while addressing the concerns of caregivers… Through technology, people facing challenges related to intellectual or developmental disabilities can have more choice and control over their lives than ever before.
With advances in technology, people experiencing disability can live their lives the way they want – managing their own daily tasks and activities, staying connected and safe, and accessing the support they need when they need it.
Additional Links:
(This blog post utilized insights from ChatGPT to assist in the drafting and editing process)
Do you have an innovative idea, service, or story that you’d like to share?
We want to hear from you! Contact SARC’s Communications Coordinator at ahoffart@sarcan.sk.ca
