Whether you’re aging in place, recovering from an accident, or raising a child with special needs, accessible housing is in high demand these days. And while accessible homes still include traditional features such as ramps and shower benches, much of what now makes a home accessible can be controlled from a smartphone. Today’s post highlights seven “five-star” apps from our BridgingApps Accessible Home App List.
The standard setup-and-control-center app for Alexa devices. Among its many options and features are some that may be new even to experienced Alexa users:
- A stored history of the app user’s Alexa conversations
- AI for creating lists and ideas on a variety of topics
- Hands-free “drop-in,” to quickly contact friends or family via Alexa
- “Things to try” tutorials
- Quick access to emergency first-aid tips: e.g., “Alexa, ask American Heart, what are the warning signs of a heart attack?”
Can control any number of compatible smart-home devices including thermostats, Wi-Fi routers, and televisions. One popular feature is “casting,” which can stream playlists, slide shows, and other options to devices in every room of the house. And of course, this app includes Google Assistant to provide quick information on any interesting or practical topic.
Another app for controlling smart-home features, but with extra room for user personalization and creativity. For example, Kasa can not only turn lights on and off, but adjust them for a variety of colors and degrees of brightness. Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Special Nest app features include:
- Smart thermostat programmed with a focus on energy saving
- Smart smoke/CO detector
- Smart alarm system and cameras
- Security alerts with specific details (e.g.: what window was disturbed, what room was entered)
- Remind Me alerts in case a user forgets to set something
- Safety Checkup for regular alarm tests
- A Safety History record of alerts
- Wi-Fi
It might sound a bit silly to devote an entire app to “smart window-blind” control; but for many users with significant mobility impairments, PowerView has opened a new world of beauty and independence. Operable by voice command or eye-gaze, it can adjust blinds for privacy, full outdoor view, or any level in between. Includes favorite-positions settings and virtual-display options.
Includes all the standard smart-home-device controls, plus features to design a schedule for maximum comfort and energy efficiency. Compatible with most user-accessibility options, including eye-gaze and adapted hand controls. Another feature is “geofencing,” which activates notifications when a device enters or leaves a particular area.
Part of the popular Ring home-security-products line, this app is included with most of their doorbell and camera options. It notifies the user when someone is outside, then opens an audiovisual connection to talk to visitors from anywhere. Includes a paid-service option for storing and editing 180 days of Ring video history. Also includes features for changing doorbell ring tones and including multiple users on an account.