Telecommunications can play a fundamental role in enabling disabled and older people to live as independently as possible. 'Smart Housing' is the integration of Telematics into the electrical installation of the home.
Shown here are a few features of smart housing that could facilitate independent living and greater social integration for persons with disabilities and the growing number of elderly people.

								Video Telephone link to a service centre will provide many people with a reassuring link to family, friends and assistance.
The user interface for all parts of the system must be consistent and easy to understand by ordinary people.
		Personal alarm system detectors can notify family, friends or emergency services.
										Rain detectors can give audible warning of skylights and windows left open.
In more remote districts telecommunications links will enable some medical services to be provided direct to the home.
			Fire detectors can send for help.							Audible feedback for blind users can help indicate whether such things as curtains are open or closed.
	Lights automatically turn off after pre-set time.
						On leaving a building, a verbal description or visual display of current status can advise about windows left open or electrical devices switched on.