Atlas World has helped residents at a supported living complex enjoy more independence thanks to the inclusion of smart assistive technology.
The Cedar Foundation’s Meadowvale Court facility in Lisburn was developed in partnership with the Triangle Housing Association to provide supported living services for adults over the age of 18 years old who require care and assistance due to brain injury, physical, sensory or neurological disability.
The complex comprises 13 single-occupancy apartments, and Atlas World was tasked with the design, supply and installation of a fire and security system to help residents enjoy more independence. The perfect solution was the SimpleHome intelligent home automation security system. Every apartment is fitted with a wall- mounted visual and audible control monitor that combines door entry functions with the latest in home automation.
However, the wall-mounted monitor is enhanced by the use of a smart tablet device that allows residents to control video door entry access, call for emergency assistance and manage core home automation functions such as turning heating and lighting on and off, as well as opening and closing windows and blinds.
The smart tablet device also includes flood detectors and heat sensors that trigger an input on the system, sending an alarm to staff, plus heating and ventilation controls in individual apartments that help manage electricity consumption. Overall, managers at the complex are also able to use the small tablet device or wall-mounted monitor to remotely disconnect and control power sockets at certain times of the day within individual apartments.
Graeme White, Major Contracts Director, explained, “The whole concept of Meadowvale Court is to empower residents so they can live with a high level of independence, and the inclusion of smart technology makes this possible.
“We have worked in the social housing sector for many years, but this project has taken that work to a whole new level and perfectly showcases how we can utilise the latest technology to provide a bespoke solution.” As part of the company’s commitment to providing a tailor-made solution, Atlas World liaised with Professor Suzanne Martin from the University of Ulster.
“With some of the residents having dexterity issues and with a view to future flexibility, Professor Martin was able to provide us with invaluable advice on layout and functionality of the tablet to make it as easy as possible to use,” added Graeme.
“This proved to be such a rewarding project, and the experience will help us in the future.” The smart tablets are part of an intuitive access control/door entry system. Proximity readers allow full computer control of anyone entering or leaving the building, including secure areas. The addition of long-range readers provides ease of access of tenants in wheelchairs.
Graeme concluded, “We developed staff skills and awareness training on the system while we also work closely with tenants to tailor the functions to meet their individual needs.”
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