7 smart home tools to make daily living easier

Smart home technology can support older people in Australia who want to stay safe and independent at home. But the benefits don’t stop there – these tools can also just make life easier in general. 

What are smart tools?

Smart tools connect to the internet or Bluetooth, so you can use them hands-free, remotely, or on a schedule. That means things like adjusting the lights, controlling the temperature, or even starting the oven can be done with a simple voice command or tap on your phone. 

Want to learn more about how smart technology can help keep you safe at home? LiveUp's got you covered:

Smart tools that make life easier

To help you get started, LiveUp’s occupational therapists have selected 7 smart home devices that you can use to improve your comfort and daily routine. 

1. Voice assistants for reminders and routines 

Voice assistants like Google Assistant (including Google Home or Nest), Alexa (including Amazon Echo), and Siri can make everyday tasks simpler. You can control them with voice commands to support a healthy routine and manage daily activities more easily. They can also connect with other smart devices in your home, creating a more integrated and supportive environment. 

Benefits:

• Set daily reminders to stretch, take a walk, drink water, or brush your teeth 
• Turn lights on and off as needed 
• Play music, audiobooks, or guided meditations 
• Get news or weather updates each day 

Everyday example: 

Diane uses her voice assistant to remind her to eat breakfast, start her guided stretches at 10am, and check the weather before going for a walk. 

2. Smart lighting to support sleep and save energy 

Smart light globes are widely available and affordable – some start from around $10 at stores like Bunnings. 

Benefits: 

• Adjust brightness or colour of lights to improve visibility or ambiance 
• Save energy on light usage and minimise energy bills 
• Schedule lights to turn on or off automatically 

Everyday example: 

Sal has his bedroom lights set to gradually brighten at 7am to help him wake up gently. In the evening, they dim to a warm tone so he can wind down with a book. 

Why do light schedules matter for sleep?

According to the Sleep Health Foundation, being in a brightly lit environment or blue light can decrease your levels of melatonin, the hormone that makes you sleepy.

A structured light schedule can help you feel more alert during the day and more relaxed at night. This makes it easier to keep a regular sleep schedule. 

3. Robotic vacuums for low-effort cleaning 

Robotic vacuums are a hands-free way to keep your home clean. You can set them on a schedule to automatically vacuum your floors each day or week, so you can spend less time pushing a hand-operated vacuum. 

Benefits: 

• Reduce physical effort and bending 
• Maintain cleanliness with minimal input 
• Affordable models are available for under $200 at retailers like Target 

Everyday example: 

John schedules his robotic vacuum to clean the living room every morning while he’s out walking his dog, so he doesn’t have to think about it. 

4. Smart thermostats for comfort and savings 

Smart thermostats (also called Wi-Fi thermostats) automate heating and cooling in your home.  

Benefits:

• Maintain a comfortable temperature at all times 
• Reduce energy use and costs 
• Control your environment remotely or set routines 

Everyday example: 

When the temperature drops overnight, a smart thermostat warms up Raj’s bedroom before he wakes up. 

To compare models and find the best fit for your home, check Energy Star’s guide to smart thermostats. 

5. Smart blinds to control light and temperature 

Smart blinds or curtains can be controlled remotely or scheduled to open and close automatically.  

Benefits: 

• Let in natural light during the day to support your sleep rhythm 
• Help keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter 
• Available from retailers like IKEA

Everyday example: 

Helen schedules her blinds to close at midday, to block the strongest summer sun, keeping her living room cooler without needing to turn on the air conditioner. 

Why does natural light matter for sleep?

If you schedule your smart blinds to open in the morning, the sunlight can help you wake up at a consistent time. 

The Sleep Health Foundation says that exposure to sunlight, especially in the early part of the day, supports your body’s sleep rhythm.

6. Smart meat thermometers for confidence in the kitchen 

A smart meat thermometer can help you can monitor your cooking from anywhere in the house. 

Benefits: 

• Connects to your phone and alerts you when your food is ready 
• Helps avoid overcooking or undercooking meals 
• Available from retailers like Kitchen Warehouse for under $50

Everyday example: 

Lee uses his smart thermometer to get a notification on his phone when the roast is done, so he can enjoy his favourite show in the meantime. 

7. Smart ovens for safer, more flexible cooking 

Smart ovens can be controlled remotely using your smartphone, tablet, or voice assistant. They offer flexibility and convenience, especially if you need to multitask. 

Benefits: 

• Control the oven from any room in the house 
• Receive alerts when your food reaches the right temperature, so you can relax while doing other things 
• Preheat the oven or adjust its temperature while still on your way home from the shops  

Everyday example: 

Margaret is preparing dinner while chatting with her granddaughter on the phone. She preheats the oven from her tablet without having to leave the couch! 

Note: Smart ovens can be expensive. You can read more about the pros and cons with CHOICE magazine.

Want to learn more? 

Smart home technology is a tool – it can work for anyone. Start where you feel comfortable and explore what fits your lifestyle. 

And you don’t have to do it all on your own. Reach out to the LiveUp Navigators to find local community groups, tech workshops, or support services near you. 

Call us for free on 1800 951 971. 

References 

Engel, P. (2024, November 29). What is a smart oven and are they worth it? CHOICE. https://www.choice.com.au/home-and-living/kitchen/ovens/articles/are-smart-ovens-worth-paying-for 

Sleep Health Foundation. Sleep hygiene: Good sleep habits. https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-topics/sleep-hygiene-good-sleep-habits  

Strengers, Y., Duque Hurtado, M., Mortimer, M., Pink, S., Eugene, A., Martin, R., Nicholls, L., Horan, B., & Thomson, S. (2021). Smart homes for seniors: Intelligent home solutions for independent living. McLean Care. https://intelligenthomesolutions.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Final-Report.pdfintelligenthomesolutions.com.au+4Monash University+4Monash University+4  

How to use this information

LiveUp provides free information to help you make informed decisions about your health. This information is for general and educational purposes only, is not intended to provide a comprehensive guide, and does not replace medical advice. Everyone is different, so some of these tips may work better for you than others. You should use your own judgment and seek medical advice when applying this information to yourself, to determine if it is suitable in your circumstances. Your use of, or reliance on, this information is solely at your own risk. Independent Living Assessment Incorporated is not responsible or liable for any injury, loss, or damage caused as a result of your use of, or reliance on, this information.

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