Accessibility and Aging
For maintaining independence
See all For maintaining independence reviewsThe Best Dictation Software
by Kaitlyn Wells
Apple Voice Control and Nuance Dragon Home 15 are the best dictation tools we’ve tested, though both struggle with some accents and speech impediments.
The Best Adult Diapers
by Anna Wenner
Most drugstore adult diapers are bad. If you need robust coverage, we found three premium diapers that make life a lot easier for someone with incontinence.
The Best Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids and Other Hearing Solutions
by Lauren Dragan
No single over-the-counter hearing device is perfect for everyone, so we offer different recommendations for different priorities and budgets.
The accessible home
See all The accessible home reviewsThe Best Smart Doorbell Camera
by Rachel Cericola
A smart doorbell camera allows you to see who’s on the other side of your front door so you can screen visitors and package deliveries—even if you aren’t home.
The Best Smart Locks
by Jon Chase
A smart lock lets you go key-free and know whenever someone comes and goes. Our pick, the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt, is sturdy, simple, and reliable.
The Best Smart Window Shades and Blinds
by Megan Wollerton
Smart shades and blinds can be set up to open or close on a schedule or at your command. They save energy, make life more convenient, and can help boost home security.
More Accessibility and Aging Posts
The Best Home Security System
by Rachel Cericola
A good home security system should make it easy to find peace of mind. It can alert you to an open door or window, frighten away prowlers, and call for help.
The Best Security Cameras for Your Home
by Rachel Cericola
Wi-Fi security cameras can help protect your family and possessions. We’ve reviewed and picked the best models for every area of your home.
The Best Smart LED Light Bulbs
by Megan Wollerton
These smart devices can transform the ambiance and comfort levels of any space in the time it takes to open an app and screw in a light bulb.
The Best Outdoor Security Camera
by Rachel Cericola
An outdoor security camera can alert you to prowlers, package deliveries, and visitors, as well as animals in your trash and things that go bump in the night.
The Best Toilet Seat Risers
by Anna Wenner
If you or a loved one find it hard to stand up after using the toilet, it may be time to add one of these toilet seat risers to the bathroom.
How a Dozen Smart Home Devices Allow One Savvy Septuagenarian to Age in Place
by Rachel Cericola
A reader shares how a small collection of smart devices make her days more convenient and secure, and have enabled her to live more independently.
The Best Smart Home Devices to Help Aging in Place
by Rachel Cericola
Smart-home devices can make it easier, safer, and more comfortable to age at home. They’re also great tools for caregivers who want to stay in touch.
The Best Alexa Smart Speakers
by Rachel Cericola and Grant Clauser
Amazon’s line of Echo smart speakers are the best option for bringing Alexa into your home. We’ve got picks for nearly any setup and situation.
Traveling in a Wheelchair Is Hard. But This Wheelchair Let Me Do a Fulbright in the Philippines.
by Olivia Mae M. Asuncion
Traveling in a wheelchair can pose countless challenges. The EZ Lite Cruiser power wheelchair helped this writer get past the obstacles and see the world.
The Best Smart Water-Leak Detector
by Eric Chiu
Water-leak sensors, which keep you in the loop if your plumbing fixtures spring a leak, can prevent a small spill from becoming a big problem.
The Best Smart Assistive Devices for People With Disabilities
by Rachel Cericola
For anyone with disabilities or mobility challenges, smart devices can be profoundly empowering and can enable more independent living.
The Best Smart Thermostat
by Roy Furchgott
Smart thermostats like our pick, the Ecobee Premium, can make your home’s HVAC more energy efficient without sacrificing your comfort.
Smart Home for Apartments and Renters
by Grant Clauser
These smart-home devices don’t need permanent installation, so you can take them with you when you move.
The Best In-Wall Smart Light Switch and Dimmer
by Rachel Cericola
A smart dimmer works like a regular switch but makes it easy to put lights on a schedule, automate them with other devices, and control them remotely.
The Best Smart Smoke Alarm
by Roy Furchgott
Smart smoke alarms are pricey, but unlike traditional ones, they can alert you to a problem even when you’re not home. The Google Nest Protect is our pick.
The Best Shower Mat
by Shannon Palus and Anna Wenner
These grippy, easy-to-clean mats can help prevent a fall in the bath or shower, offering peace of mind that anyone can use.
The Best Cell Phones for Older Adults
by Liz Seegert
From top-tier smartphones to basic models, these phones offer safety, health, and accessibility features that many older adults and caregivers will appreciate.
The Best Smart Home Devices for Apple HomeKit and Siri
by Jon Chase
HomeKit is a straightforward smart-home system for anyone who uses Apple devices. Here’s how it works and our pick of the best compatible smart devices.