Smart Support for Everyday Living
Amazon Echo devices — including the Echo Show 8 (pictured, right), Echo Show 10 (pictured, left), Echo Dot, and Echo Spot — are more than just smart speakers. They’re powerful tools that help individuals manage daily routines, stay connected, and live more independently through voice control, visual prompts, and intelligent home automation.
Echo Show 8 Compact Power with a Clear Display
The Echo Show 8 combines a vibrant 8-inch HD screen with Alexa’s hands-free convenience.
Key Benefits:
- Visual Reminders: Display daily schedules, medication times, and appointment alerts.
- Video Calling: Stay connected with family, caregivers, or therapists using simple voice commands.
- Entertainment & Information: Stream music, news, or videos, and ask Alexa for weather updates or recipes.
Perfect for: Bedrooms, kitchens, or smaller living spaces.
Echo Show 10 Smarter Assistance that Moves with You
The Echo Show 10 features a 10.1-inch HD screen that automatically swivels to keep you in view during calls or when following instructions.
Key Benefits:
- Motion Tracking: Follow along with cooking videos or exercise routines hands-free.
- Home Monitoring: Check in on loved ones or pets remotely using the built-in camera.
- Voice-Activated Control: Manage lights, locks, and thermostats with a simple “Alexa, turn on the lights.”
Perfect for: Living areas, kitchens, or multipurpose rooms.
How Echo Devices Promote Independence
Whether supporting individuals with disabilities, seniors, or anyone seeking a simpler lifestyle, Echo devices empower users to:
- Stay organized with visual and audio reminders
- Communicate effortlessly through video or voice calls
- Enhance safety with smart home integration
- Access information instantly without screens or keyboards
Smart home additions — such as smart lights, door locks, thermostats, motion sensors, and cameras — can be seamlessly connected to Amazon Echo devices to enhance safety, autonomy, and independence for individuals with disabilities. Through simple voice commands or visual displays, users can control their environment, receive alerts, and monitor their homes without physical effort. These features reduce reliance on caregivers, increase confidence in managing daily tasks, and create a safer, more responsive living space that adapts to each individual’s unique needs.
Together, these devices bring confidence and convenience to daily life — helping every user live more independently.
Technology Lab: Empowering Independence Through Innovation
Our Technology Lab is a dynamic, hands-on learning space designed to introduce individuals to the latest in enabling and assistive technologies. The lab provides education, guided exploration, and real-world skill translation opportunities for individuals seeking greater independence, autonomy, and confidence in their everyday living.
Within the lab, participants can explore and trial a variety of smart home and assistive devices that support daily routines, safety, communication, and wellness. Each session is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals, helping them discover tools and strategies that best fit their lifestyle and level of independence.
Featured Technologies
- Smart Kitchen Appliances: Includes a smart microwave and smart air fryer, allowing individuals to practice safe, accessible meal preparation using voice commands or app-based controls.
- Smart TV and Smart Plugs: Learn how to manage entertainment systems, lighting, and small appliances remotely or through voice activation to promote control and environmental access.
- Health & Hygiene Management Devices: Explore devices that support medication reminders, vital sign monitoring, and daily hygiene routines—encouraging self-care and health management.
- Echo Show Devices (8, 10, 15, and Echo Spot): Participants can learn to use voice assistants for scheduling, reminders, communication, entertainment, and home automation. These devices also provide visual and auditory feedback to accommodate diverse needs.
Hands-On Learning & Skill Development
The Technology Lab offers a safe environment to explore, problem-solve, and practice with guidance from trained professionals. Through hands-on experience, individuals gain:
- Confidence using new technologies in their daily routines
- Independence in managing home tasks and communication
- Safety awareness through smart home alerts and automation
- Self-advocacy skills by learning how to choose and personalize assistive devices
Bridging Technology and Daily Life
Beyond exploration, the lab emphasizes real-world application—teaching participants how to integrate these tools into their homes and routines. Whether learning how to use an Echo Show to set medication reminders, connecting smart plugs for easier appliance control, or managing wellness devices for daily health checks, the goal is to translate technology skills into meaningful daily independence.
Contact Braegan Harris for technology assessment and training.
braeganharris@villageofmerici.org 317-938-5906