While we cannot yet commute in hover craft, the Jetson’s home has mostly become reality. Technological advances make nearly any task in a home able to be automated and monitored remotely. I’d even go as far to say EVERY task but I’m not certain, although wouldn’t be surprised, whether that includes cleaning the bathrooms. (But won’t that day be glorious!?!)

Increased competition has driven down prices. I’m not exaggerating that, after installation, the recurring cost for even the most comprehensive home automation system is less than what many consumers shell out monthly for mobile phone service or cable/satellite television.

If you can dream it, there’s likely a system for anything you’re attempting to achieve. Home automation (also called domotics) complements Universal Design, particularly our mission of recycling homes to help people avoid the nursing home, because the technology helps people maintain independence longer by promoting ease, safety, accessibility and peace of mind. Depending on individual circumstances, home automation delays a forced move, or perhaps even postpones the need for assisted care, therefore preventing residents from out-living their homes.

But aside from supporting aging-in-place or livability for people with disabilities, automating a home also improves energy efficiency, security and simple convenience. For owners of vacation or second homes, these systems reduce the necessity of a physical presence and can be configured to accomplish everything from closing/opening drapes to regulating utilities and property access for maintenance people or grounds keepers.

But surely it’s complicated to operate, right? If you’re comfortable managing a cell phone or email, you can set up and monitor these systems, and some services even do that for you. The manufacturers and vendors absolutely must design their systems to be intuitive and user-friendly; they wouldn’t be able to sell very many if it were akin to launching the space shuttle.

To give you an idea of the possibilities, I’m posting a pair of links from The New York Times written about adult children and their aging parents. The articles, “Monitoring Mom and Dad” and “The Technology for Monitoring Elderly Relatives” include links to service providers which assist with everything from taking medication to activities of daily living.

Aside from the WOW-inspiring gadgets, I found most interesting the discussion about the balance between worried adult kids wanting to ensure safety and older Americans who don’t want their children incessantly pestering them. Funny how the tables turn in life from parents looking after children. I’m glad to know there’s middle ground which makes everyone happy.