FEATURED ARTICLE
Using the Latest Technology to Create Specialist Disability Accommodations (SDAs) by Madimack Madimack is a leading technology provider who is currently working with large scale developers and housing providers to deliver customised automation packages for SDA accommodation. Their emphasis is on improving safety and support for the tenant and care providers as well as providing assistance to builder and developers to meet the requirements of SDAs.
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reating safe and secure accommodations for people with disabilities can be a big challenge because of varying needs and abilities. The biggest challenge can be how to use complicated technology for both emergency communications and home automation in a way that makes it simple and easy to use. A recent project, The AccessAccom Sheffield Qtr SDA Apartments in Penrith illustrates the challenges of meeting these requirements and what can be done with current technology, This project consists of 10 x High Physical Support apartments with one OOA (overnight on-site
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assistance) apartment, which is commonly known in the sector as the concierge model. The apartments span over 5 floors with 2 apartments on each floor and the OOA unit on the lower level. With new models of care and housing there are always challenges and this project was no exception. It started with a detailed analysis of the scope of the project and the final requirements of the tenants. There was a strong need to ensure simplicity and functionality in all the modifications and to ensure that the correct network was installed throughout the multiple levels of housing and in common areas. This would ensure that the care providers’ communication devices worked in every area of the apartments and common areas. A hospital grade assistance call system was also set up in each apartment to provide safety and security throughout. This was key to the design process as it had to provide a safe, operational, responsive, and cost-effective solution for the care provider.
THE MAGAZINE FOR THE ASSOCIATION OF CONSULTANTS IN ACCESS AUSTRALIA
