Purpose
- Develop mainstream smart home technology (MSHT) service delivery models for different types of providers and demonstrate that MSHT, when implemented and supported effectively, can empower people with disabilities to participate fully and independently in home and community life.
Needs
- People with disabilities and older adults prefer to live in their homes and communities.
- The pandemic’s impact on people living in facilities such as nursing homes has brought more focus on the needs for home- and community-based services (HCBS).
- MSHT are becoming increasingly powerful, affordable, and relevant to improving environment control, independence, and participation of people with disabilities.
Activities
- Needs assessment: Analyze the needs and resources for establishing and providing MSHT service delivery programs at three sites including a university-based outpatient AT clinic, a VA outpatient AT clinic, and a regional Center for Independent Living (CIL).
- Proof of Concept: Iteratively develop and refine the components of MSHT service delivery programs through pilot evaluations at each site.
- Proof of Product: Implement smart home service delivery models at each site and evaluate the outcomes regarding program implementation (e.g., the percentage of participants who receive the prescribed devices and complete the training and user satisfaction) and impact (e.g., functional improvement, user acceptance, and perceived benefits of MSHT).
Deliverables
- MSHT service delivery models for three different funding settings, which include tools and resources for each step of the delivery process including assessment protocols and tools, device selection guides, and training protocols and tools that can help improve access and effective use of MSHT in people with disabilities and empower them to participate independently in home and community living.