Bathroom | Supporting Occupatio

Showerhead control

Smart shower systems allow users to control water temperature, flow, and showerhead functions remotely.

The system connected to a digital valve and may be controlled via:

Voice command: The system may be integrated with a hub (I.e. Siri, Google, Alexa)
Remote controlled via interface
Wall-mounted switch
- Systems may be linked with existing assistive technology such as eye gaze and/or sip and puff depending on the users’ needs (check with an integrator about the viability if this is appropriate for the service user.

Hutchinson, C., Cleland, J., Williams, P. A. H., Manuel, K., & Laver, K. (2024). Calculating the social impact of home automation for people with disability: A social return on investment study. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 71(6), 956-966. https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1630.12977
Varriale, L., Briganti, P., & Mele, S. (2020). Disability and home automation: Insights and challenges within organizational settings. In A. Lazazzara, F. Ricciardi, & S. Za (Eds.), Exploring Digital Ecosystems (Lecture Notes in Information Systems and Organisation, Vol. 33, pp. 47–66). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-23665-6_5

Bidet

A smart bidet is a toilet seat or fixture that provides automated washing and drying functions.

The bidet can have a sensor or a motor and may be controlled by:

Voice command: The system may be integrated with a hub (I.e. Siri, Google, Alexa)
Remote controlled via interface,
Wall-mounted switch
- Systems may be linked with existing assistive technology such as eye gaze and/or sip and puff depending on the users’ needs (check with an integrator about the viability if this is appropriate for the service user.

Independence: A person with limited hand dexterity, arm function, or chronic pain can maintain their personal hygiene independently, which is a significant factor in dignity and autonomy (Ding et al., 2021).

Reduced caregiver dependence: Reduces the need for assistance with a highly personal task and increase user dignity (Mun & Kim, 2024).

Accessibility: Automated systems promote an accessible environment that positively support the service user (Varriale et al., 2020).

Ding, D., Morris, L., Messina, K., & Fairman, A. (2021). Providing mainstream smart home technology as assistive technology for persons with disabilities: A qualitative study with professionals. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, 18(7), 18. https://doi.org/10.1080/17483107.2021.1998673

Mun, K., & Kim, J. (2024). Development of a smart home modification program: A delphi survey of multidisciplinary health care experts. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 78(5). https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2024.050651

Varriale, L., Briganti, P., & Mele, S. (2020). Disability and home automation: Insights and challenges within organizational settings. In A. Lazazzara, F. Ricciardi, & S. Za (Eds.), Exploring Digital Ecosystems (Lecture Notes in Information Systems and Organisation, Vol. 33, pp. 47–66). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-23665-6_5

Faucet

Smart faucets can be turned on and off and have their temperature controlled without manual effort. The temperature and amount of water can be pre-set.

The faucet can have a sensor or a motor and may be controlled by:

Voice command: The system may be integrated with a hub (I.e. Siri, Google, Alexa)
Remote controlled via interface,
Wall-mounted switch,
Motion sensor: The faucet turns on when a hand is placed in front of it.
- Systems may be linked with existing assistive technology such as eye gaze and/or sip and puff depending on the users’ needs (check with an integrator about the viability if this is appropriate for the service user.

Hutchinson, C., Cleland, J., Williams, P. A. H., Manuel, K., & Laver, K. (2024). Calculating the social impact of home automation for people with disability: A social return on investment study. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 71(6), 956-966. https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1630.12977
Varriale, L., Briganti, P., & Mele, S. (2020). Disability and home automation: Insights and challenges within organizational settings. In A. Lazazzara, F. Ricciardi, & S. Za (Eds.), Exploring Digital Ecosystems (Lecture Notes in Information Systems and Organisation, Vol. 33, pp. 47–66). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-23665-6_5