How Wireless Home Security Systems Help The Elderly and Disabled

It is incredibly important to feel safe and secure in the comfort of your home, and a quality home security system can help with that. The peace of mind from knowing that you are protected against home intrusions makes investing in a home security system worth it for any homeowner in Ontario. Such protection and feelings of safety are particularly important for elderly or disabled people living independently.

As people age, they become increasingly vulnerable due to the deterioration of their eyesight and hearing as well as the decline in speed and mobility. Similar limitations may often affect disabled people as well. For these reasons, elderly and disabled people tend to have a stronger fear of crime than the rest of us because they are less equipped to respond effectively to situations in which they are victimized.

Fortunately, even just the presence of a smart home security system is often enough to deter crime from occurring when it is known that such a system exists. And, if there is ever an attempted break-in at a house where a smart security system is in place, its numerous features can alert the authorities immediately while scaring off the criminal and capturing evidence. Additionally, smart home security systems often provide home automation features that will help you keep an eye on your home and those inside it no matter where you are.

Understanding Wireless Home Security Systems

Finding a high-quality wireless system is the best option if you invest in home security. Wireless home security systems are more convenient to install since they do not require you to remove walls or pull up the flooring to rework the wiring in your home. They use wireless signal technologies such as radio and cellular chips. Here are the 3 main types of wireless home security systems available:

1. Self-Monitored Security Systems

Self-monitored security systems give you complete control over monitoring your property via motion sensors, door sensors, security cameras, and alarms that call your phone or send you a message whenever a security breach is detected. Most of these systems are also paired with a mobile application that makes it easy to check in on your home through your phone or other mobile devices. However, although you will be made aware of triggers to the system immediately, it will be up to you to handle how you want to respond, either by calling the police or a neighbour to check in on the situation.

2. Company-Monitored Security Systems

Company-monitored security systems often come with similar motion detectors and sensors to self-monitored systems. However, the main difference with company-monitored security systems is that they alert a call center, emergency team, or emergency responder whenever an emergency is detected. In most cases, you will still be notified first to verify whether the system was triggered by mistake. If you fail to respond to such a notification promptly, or if you do confirm that it is not a false alarm, the security organization supporting your system will dispatch police or security to handle the situation.

3. Unmonitored Security Systems

Unmonitored systems typically come with a wide range of sensors as well, including motion sensors, glass-break sensors, and window sensors. However, the most important feature of unmonitored security systems is the extremely loud sirens that go off when the alarm is triggered. The main focus of unmonitored security systems is to startle and scare off intruders by drawing attention loudly and clearly to your home, persuading anyone nearby to pay attention to what is going on and calling for help.

How Wireless Security Systems Help the Elderly and Disabled

A wireless security system helps elderly and disabled people by giving them the confidence to live independently. An efficient security system provides them with the same comfort and safety as any homeowner. However, there is also the added benefit of their loved ones being able to monitor them to ensure their safety, not just concerning crime but in several ways.

For instance, it is common for older people to fall and hurt themselves. In some cases, they may not be able to get up and get help. However, if they have someone checking in on their 24/7 home monitoring system’s cameras regularly, they can get the help they need much faster.

Several wireless security systems these days are also designed for ease of use, so it will not be overwhelming even for elderly or disabled people to use such a system. Many systems can automatically arm or disarm themselves once their settings are configured. Remote emergency access is another common feature, essentially like a key fob with a button that can be pressed to call for help in an emergency, such as a stroke.

Best Smart Home Devices in Ontario For Older and Disabled People

The presence of smart devices in an elderly or disabled person’s home will not only keep them safer but also make their lives easier and more comfortable in various ways. For instance, a Mesh WiFi system can provide direct high-speed internet to every part of the house. Voice-activated virtual assistants can function as both an easy-to-use tool and a virtual companion, as loneliness is often just as significant of an issue for elderly or disabled people living independently.

Different smart sensors can also be installed in various home parts, making it easier for elderly or disabled people to turn off lights, open or close windows, lock or unlock doors or even adjust the thermostat. Such sensors can also alert family members or caregivers when someone has left their bed or notify them of how many times a medicine cabinet has been accessed. Some sensors can detect when windows or doors have been broken and can immediately notify the police.

Smart plugs with timers can ensure devices such as space heaters or fans are turned on or off appropriately. A video doorbell can also save elderly or disabled people from the hassle of having to open the door when it is unnecessary by allowing them to see who is there in the comfort and safety of their home.

Why Wireless Security Systems Make Life Easier For Elderly and Disabled People and Their Families

Like all people, elderly and disabled people deserve their independence. However, when they have certain physical or mental limitations, someone must regularly check in on them to ensure they are okay. Fortunately, wireless home security systems make this possible even if they do not have family living nearby. As long as they have a plan with automated features, 24/7 monitoring, and remote emergency access, they will be just as safe as they would be if a caregiver were in the house. Yet, their pride and dignity can remain intact.

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Author Bio: Jessica Coates is a blogger in Toronto. She graduated with honors from the University of British Columbia with a dual degree in Business Administration and Creative Writing. Jessica Coates is a community manager for small businesses across Canada. When not working, she leisurely studies economics, history, law and business solutions.

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