It came around so fast again, probably by the time you read this it will be all over. Naidex 2016 was this week on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and as always, visitors were treated to the cream of assisted living design and innovations.

Personally I only had one day to explore so apologies if I missed the odd stand but here are a few favourites of what I saw.

1)      GlassOuse

What can I say about GlassOuse? I was just one of countless people who were enthralled by Mehmet Turker’s humbling story of how a friend in need inspired him to create a low cost eye tracking system that enables people who cannot use their hands to use computers using only their eyes. Keep an eye out for this one in the near future.

2)      Howdens

Whilst the joinery firm might not specifically specialise in independent living per se they nonetheless put on a very impressive display, building an entire kitchen to showcase their accessible range of kitchen accessories. Rise and fall surfaces, cupboards and a remote controlled overhead fan so that a wheelchair user doesn’t need to reach up were included in the display.

3)      Genny Mobility

What’s not to like? It’s a really cool way to get about. Genny detects your centre of balance and accordingly cannot be tipped over despite being on just two wheels. You lean forward or backwards according to which direction you want to go in, and only very subtle movements are required. I got to watch a few people try out Genny at the stand too.

4)      RehabTeQ Ltd

Their stand was equipped with two large model houses that looked like they belonged in a Victorian nursery. The modern twist came when you pushed buttons on a touch screen and little windows on the houses opened and closed electronically. The doors and lights were also activated remotely, potentially improving the independence of residents who have a disability. Here is a simple and succinct diagram from their website to illustrate what they do without any confusion.

5)      Bellman & Symfon

Again, it’s pretty difficult to summarise this company in one short paragraph. They have several different gadgets for people who are hearing impaired to alert them to various things going on around their house. The one that I especially liked was the personal alarm that is clipped on you and vibrates differently if; the doorbell, smoke alarm, phone or baby monitor is triggered.

6)      Ridley Electronics Limited

Another giant of home automation at Naidex, Ridley Electronics was showcasing some of the adaptations they have available for people who would physically struggle to open their windows, doors and more. Although not yet available to connect with other telecare systems, I’m told this is something they aim to do in the not too distant future.

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