What was making daily life difficult?
Opening and closing window coverings can be a major daily barrier when switches, cords or handles are out of reach. This automatic blinds case study explains how a Perth participant gained more control over privacy, light and temperature through tailored automation.
The participant, called Sam for privacy, uses a powered wheelchair and has limited upper-body movement. Sam relied on support workers to adjust the bedroom blinds and living room shutters, particularly in the morning and before bed.
This affected more than comfort. Sam could not quickly close the coverings when glare made a screen difficult to see, or when privacy was needed during personal care. Reaching for the blind chain also created a risk of shoulder strain.
The main goals were to:
- Control each window covering without physical reaching
- Create morning and evening routines
- Keep manual controls available for support workers
- Avoid loose cords and inaccessible wall switches
- Use one simple control method throughout the home
How were the right controls selected?
An occupational therapist first reviewed Sam’s movement, routines, home layout and existing devices. This functional assessment helped separate useful features from options that would add cost without supporting Sam’s disability needs.
Sam tested voice control, a phone app and a wireless button. Voice control worked well most of the time, but a bedside button was added as a backup for times when speech was difficult or the internet connection was unavailable.
The recommended setup included:
- Motorised roller blinds in the bedroom
- Motorised shutters in the main living area
- Accessible wireless buttons near the bed and wheelchair charging point
- Voice commands for individual rooms
- Scheduled opening and closing times
- Manual override controls
Testing controls before installation can prevent expensive changes later. Our guide to trialling assistive technology before you buy explains how trials can support better decisions and clearer NDIS evidence.
What happened during installation?
The installation was planned around Sam’s support schedule to reduce disruption. Measurements were checked twice because the windows differed in width, mounting space and access to power.
| Stage | What happened |
|---|---|
| Site check | Window sizes, power access and Wi-Fi coverage were confirmed |
| Product setup | Motors, buttons and control options were matched to Sam’s needs |
| Installation | Blinds and shutters were fitted and tested |
| Programming | Voice commands, schedules and limits were configured |
| Handover | Sam and support workers practised normal and backup controls |
A licensed electrician completed the required hardwired electrical work in line with Western Australian requirements. The installer also checked that the moving blinds and NDIS shutters would not obstruct wheelchair access, windows or emergency exit paths.
Sam’s system was linked with existing lighting routines. Similar combinations are covered in our article on smart lighting for accessibility.
What changed after the system was fitted?
Sam could open the bedroom blind independently each morning and close it before personal care. Afternoon glare was managed immediately, without waiting for a support worker to enter the room.
The scheduled evening routine also reduced the number of separate tasks Sam needed to remember. At the chosen time, the living room shutters closed and selected lights turned on, while Sam could still change either setting by voice or button.
The main outcomes were:
- Greater privacy at times chosen by Sam
- Less reaching and reduced shoulder strain
- Faster control of glare and room temperature
- Fewer routine requests to support workers
- More choice over morning and evening routines
This supported independent living in Perth without removing human assistance where it was still needed. For another practical example, read a day in the life of a smart SDA home in Perth.
Funding outcomes depend on your plan and evidence. The disability-related need, expected benefit and lower-cost alternatives should be clearly recorded, as explained in budgeting for NDIS smart home technology.
What can you take from this case study?
This Innogreen case study shows that successful automation starts with the person, not the product. Controls should match your movement, communication, daily routines and backup needs.
If inaccessible blinds or shutters limit your privacy or independence, start by recording which tasks require assistance and how often. You can then discuss assessment, product selection and installation through Innogreen’s automatic blind and shutter service.