This guide has been designed and optimized for Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2 — the current W3C Recommendation — and remains backward compatible with 2.1 and 2.0. WCAG 2.2 adds new criteria for focus visibility, target sizes, and accessible authentication and removes 4.1.1 Parsing; content conforming to 2.2 also conforms to 2.1/2.0 (W3C, WAI overview). Note that some regulations still cite earlier versions (for example, the U.S. DOJ’s 2024 ADA Title II rule requires WCAG 2.1 AA with compliance windows into 2026–2027, and EU public-sector procurement aligns to EN 301 549/WCAG 2.1 AA). Separately, the European Accessibility Act requires many consumer digital products/services to be accessible by June 28, 2025 (DOJ Title II final rule; EN 301 549; European Accessibility Act). See our disclosure below for more information.
Smart home technology has accelerated, moving beyond novelty and home security systems. Interoperability via Matter, reliable low‑power mesh through Thread, and faster networking with Wi‑Fi 7 now underpin devices that help older adults and people with disabilities live more independently. Look for products supporting secure local control, standardized QR‑code setup and multi‑admin sharing (Matter), and emerging security labeling like the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark to simplify safer purchasing.
Whether you’re purchasing smart devices for yourself or for a family member, focus on: the specific outcomes you want, how devices will work together (Matter/Thread or your current ecosystem), home network reliability, accessibility and regulatory needs (WCAG and applicable rules), security/update policies (Cyber Trust Mark, vendor commitments), and who can share admin/control safely using Matter’s multi‑admin for caregiver access (Matter; Thread; Wi‑Fi 7).
Your Needs
Start with tangible goals. For mobility or cognitive support, a video doorbell can notify both the resident and a trusted caregiver via shared access, enabling two‑way talk without reaching the door. To reduce nighttime falls, pair smart lighting with reliable presence sensing (including modern mmWave sensors) so hallways light up when someone enters. For safety, add leak sensors with automatic shutoff to limit water damage; for comfort and energy savings, use connected thermostats that participate in demand‑response programs (NREL on grid‑interactive homes; Matter). For hearing support, configure visual alerts (flashing lights) in addition to audio and phone haptics so key events are not missed (Apple Accessibility; Android Accessibility).
Ease of Use
Modern devices often support scan‑to‑set‑up with Matter QR codes and benefit from hubs/routers that include a Thread Border Router for resilient local control (Matter; Thread). For apps and control screens, align to key WCAG 2.2 success criteria that directly affect smart‑home usability: ensure large, easy‑to‑tap controls (2.5.8 Target Size), highly visible focus indicators for keyboard/remote users (2.4.13 Focus Appearance; 2.4.11–12 Focus Not Obscured), alternatives to drag‑only gestures for scenes/sliders (2.5.7 Dragging Movements), and at least one sign‑in path that avoids memory‑intensive challenges (3.3.8–9 Accessible Authentication). Also avoid forcing users to retype information you already have and keep help in a consistent place (3.3.7 Redundant Entry; 3.2.6 Consistent Help). See the W3C quick reference for techniques and tests (How to Meet WCAG 2.2). If voice is not ideal, most platforms now support typed assistant requests and on‑screen awareness to accomplish tasks hands‑free or by touch (Apple Intelligence and new Siri; Google Gemini Live).
Budget
Set a budget that includes upfront and ongoing costs. Entry control can be inexpensive: a smart speaker is about $49.99 and budget color bulbs are roughly $13.99 each (Echo Dot 5th gen; Wyze Bulb Color). Thermostats typically range from $129.99 to $249.99 depending on sensors and integrations (Nest Thermostat; ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium). A retrofit Wi‑Fi smart lock is commonly ~$229.99 and a wired video doorbell can start near $49.99 (August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock; Ring Video Doorbell Wired). If you want recorded video, plan for subscriptions: Ring Protect typically $4.99/month per device (or $10/month for multiple) and Nest Aware $8–$15/month per home depending on history (Ring Protect; Nest Aware). Include maintenance in your budget (e.g., robovac bags/filters, replacement lock batteries). Where possible, choose cameras/doorbells that support local recording to reduce recurring costs, and prefer products with clear update policies and security labeling (U.S. Cyber Trust Mark).
Installation
Many smart devices are DIY‑friendly: download the app, scan a Matter QR code for secure commissioning, connect to your Wi‑Fi (or your network standard of choice), and power the device. Hubs/routers that include a Thread Border Router simplify adding battery‑powered sensors and locks to a reliable local mesh (Thread). Matter also standardizes multi‑admin control so caregivers can be added with the right permissions without sharing a single account, and devices can work across Apple, Google, Amazon, and SmartThings ecosystems (Matter). For complex installs, most brands provide step‑by‑step guides and optional professional setup.
There are many smart devices on the market that can improve safety, comfort, and independence. The categories below highlight practical options and how to deploy them with modern standards for interoperability, accessibility, security, and cost control (Matter; Wi‑Fi 7; WCAG 2.2 Quick Reference).
Smart light bulbs
Today’s bulbs support schedules, scenes, and presence‑based automations, and many are Matter‑compatible so the same bulb works across ecosystems and can join Thread for fast, low‑power control (Matter; Thread). For those who are deaf or hard of hearing, configure lights to flash when the doorbell rings or when a phone call/notification arrives, pairing visual cues with phone vibration. On supported displays, captions provide additional context for visitors or announcements (Apple Accessibility; Android Accessibility).
Smartphone/tablet required to operate: Generally needed for setup and scenes; ongoing control can be via hub/voice automations
Smart hubs
Hubs and platforms increasingly support Matter and Thread for local, reliable control (Matter; Thread). Assistants have also advanced: Apple’s updated Siri understands more natural requests and can act in and across apps with on‑device processing and privacy‑preserving Private Cloud Compute fallback; Google’s Gemini Live enables real‑time, multimodal conversation; Amazon previewed a more conversational Alexa with natural routine creation. These improvements make tasks like “lock the front door, dim living room to 30%, and tell my daughter I’m resting” more reliable and private to execute (Apple; Google Home updates; Alexa generative preview coverage; Matter 1.4).
Smartphone/tablet required to operate: No for daily voice use; setup and app management typically require a phone
Robot vacuums
Robovacs handle routine cleaning with app or voice control and room mapping. Matter expanded to cover more appliance categories, including floorcare, improving cross‑ecosystem control and reliability over time (Matter). For accessibility, ensure app UIs use generous touch targets (WCAG 2.5.8) and provide non‑drag alternatives for zone selection (2.5.7). Include ongoing maintenance in your plan (dust bags/filters or brush replacements), and consider caregiver sharing via Matter multi‑admin for help starting or monitoring cleans when needed.
Smartphone/tablet required to operate: Typically needed for setup/scheduling; hubs/voice can start and stop cleaning
Video doorbells
A video doorbell can alert you and trusted contacts when someone is at the door, with two‑way talk and motion/person notifications. For recorded history and smart alerts, most brands require a subscription (e.g., Ring Protect from $4.99/month per device; Nest Aware $8–$15/month per home), though some models support local recording to avoid monthly fees (Ring Protect plans; Nest Aware). Upgrading to Wi‑Fi 7 infrastructure can reduce video latency and improve reliability in busy homes. For accessibility, enable visual alerts (flashing bulbs) and captions on supported smart displays, and design app interactions with clear focus indicators and large targets (WCAG 2.2) (WCAG 2.2 Quick Reference; Apple Accessibility; Android Accessibility).
Smartphone/tablet required to operate: Needed for setup and notifications; hubs/voice can answer or show feeds on supported displays
Smart locks
Smart locks improve access and safety with remote control, per‑guest PINs, and audit logs, but security depends on both mechanical hardware and digital design. Prefer locks that support standardized, secure onboarding and local control (Matter or HomeKit), with strong crypto, secure boot, and signed updates (Matter security). Wallet‑based NFC credentials (e.g., home keys) store access in the phone’s Secure Element, reducing cloud dependence (Apple Platform Security). For proximity unlock, be cautious: BLE‑only systems are susceptible to relay attacks; choose solutions with UWB secure ranging or require a second factor (PIN/biometric) (BLE relay attack; UWB security). Select ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 or 2 mechanical hardware, enable account 2FA, use long, unique PINs per person, and keep firmware updated with signed releases (BHMA lock grades; NISTIR 8425 baseline). Look for vendors participating in security labeling programs (UK PSTI requirements; U.S. Cyber Trust Mark) that disclose update timelines and vulnerability reporting (UK PSTI).
Smartphone/tablet required to operate: Needed for setup; daily use can be via keypad, NFC/wallet, or hub/voice (use voice unlock only with appropriate safeguards)
Conclusion
Smart home technology is capable of making daily tasks more manageable for older adults and people with disabilities. To maximize independence and safety in 2025, choose interoperable devices (Matter/Thread) with local control, invest in a solid network (consider Wi‑Fi 7 for busy homes), and align your apps and interfaces to WCAG 2.2 while recognizing regulatory baselines (ADA Title II requires WCAG 2.1 AA; EU public‑sector via EN 301 549; the European Accessibility Act deadline is June 28, 2025). Enable multimodal alerts (audio, visual, haptics), use accessible authentication, and test critical tasks with assistive tech users. When shopping, balance ongoing costs (e.g., video storage plans, consumables) against local‑recording options and look for clear update policies and security labels (WCAG 2.2 Quick Reference; Cyber Trust Mark; EN 301 549; ADA Title II rule; European Accessibility Act).
