What is the process? How does this work?

The first step in the process is the free initial consultation. During this consultation, we’ll discuss your needs and concerns. By the end of this discussion, you will know if smart home technology is right for you. If you decide to proceed, the second step will be to conduct a home visit, which takes around 30 minutes. Following this, I’ll make recommendations regarding products and provide a written estimate for installation costs. Once installation is complete, I will train the Caregiver-Administrator and users on how to get the most from their new devices.

I ‘d like to try doing the installation myself. Can you just order the products for me?

My hourly rate for installation includes the significant amount of time I’ve already invested in market research, product testing, research on aging, and practice installations, so that I can recommend the most effective products based on your needs and concerns, with a focus on senior safety. Because of this, I do not offer product orders for DIY installations.

I’ve never used smart home technology before. Is it difficult to figure out?

The majority of devices are “fix it and forget it” leaving the user with nothing additional to “do”. For example, once a fall detection camera is installed, there is nothing else to be done except for the Caregiver-Administrator to check notifications , if received. Voice assistant devices can be programmed with reminders and automations (medication reminders, lighting schedules, alarm schedules, news and weather schedules, etc.) at the time of installation. Some devices (motion-sensing lights, cameras) require “maintenance activities” such as recharging batteries or refilling medication dispensers. My services include training on how to perform these maintenance tasks.

I’m a caregiver who is comfortable enough with technology, but my parent isn’t. Will they be able to use these products?

The answer to this question depends in part on the mental status of the senior. When recommending products, I consider effectiveness, appropriateness and ease-of-use. Many products, as stated above, require no effort at all on the part of the senior. Some seniors and caregivers may benefit from visual or audio “prompts”, which can be as simple as a notecard with basic instructions placed next to the device. I am always happy to include this as part of installation. In all cases, there will be a “Caregiver-Administrator” who will be the primary contact and responsible person when it comes to recharging batteries, responding to notifications, and so on. I am always available to troubleshoot any issues or concerns with the designated administrator.

Will I have to download a bunch of apps on my phone?

One of the great things about smart home technology is the ability to operate it remotely. This usually requires an app on your phone, from which you can do things like check a camera, turn on/off the alarm, see if medication has been taken, or unlock a door. I make every effort to choose products from product lines that “play well together” (e.g., Ring + Alexa). In some cases, multiple products can be managed from one app. I recommend that customers create a folder specifically for their smart home apps on their phone. Most users find this to be an efficient way of managing their devices.

Am I going to be getting notifications and alerts all the time?

Not everyone wants to receive a notification every time a front door is opened. Notification settings can be adjusted easily, based on your preferences. I’m happy to show you how to adjust the settings on your devices so that you only receive the notifications you want. As time goes by and situations change, you may want to re-adjust these in the future.

Will I need to be there during the installation?

It is not necessary for you to be there as long as I have access and a reliable way to reach you should I have any questions. We will discuss who, if anyone, will be home during the installation prior to the installation during scheduling.

Do I set up my own accounts for devices or can you do that for me?

For ease of installation, I will create a separate Gmail address specifically for all your smart home accounts. This gives me access for setup and training purposes without you having to share your personal email information. If you want to receive emails from these accounts in your personal email inbox, I will show you how to set up automatic forwarding from the “smart home email account”. Some devices may require a subscription and a credit card to set up. We can discuss options during the initial consultation.

What about inputting all the contacts? Do I do that myself?

If you provide me a list of ‘allowed’ contacts along with their email address and mobile number, I’m happy to input them during the installation process. That way, the device is immediately ready to be used with friends and family upon completion of the installation.

I’m still not sure. Can I start off with something simple and then see how it goes?

Of course! During the initial consultation we can discuss your level of readiness and comfortability. If you would like to start small by introducing just one or two devices that is perfectly fine (and sometime the best option). You can always opt to add more later as needs or circumstances change.