Smart security considerations for multi-generational households
In England and Wales, multi-generational households are the fastest growing household type, led by a range of socio-economic change. Alongside this development, has come the increasing popularity of smart home technology with many homeowners choosing devices that utilise automation to ensure the safety of their loved ones and belongings, whilst achieving maximum convenience.
Here, Richard Sehdeva, Design Team Manager at ERA, explains why keyless security solutions, such as ERA’s TouchKey, are a great option for security that suits the preferences of each member of the household.
The rise of the multi-generation household
A report from Legal and General report found that 1.8 million UK households are now multi-generational. There are many reasons for this shift, with some young adults unable to get on the property ladders and an ageing population being faced with increased care costs, multi-generational households provide a way of sharing financial responsibilities between families.
Given this, it is important that home security options are able to suit the wide variety of needs one household may have, and this often means combining traditional hardware with the latest technology for a robust solution.
User preferences
The younger generation, especially those born after the year 2000, are digital natives and are generally confident in the use of technology. However, in contrast, the older generation are likely to feel less comfortable with new technologies.
Not only have they lived without smart technology for a large portion of their lives, but they may also experience cognitive decline in later years which could mean it is difficult for them to pick up the skills required to make use of innovative technology.
Of course, despite these differences, access to high performance home security is essential, regardless of technical ability. Therefore solutions, such as TouchKey, allow all age groups to use a smart, yet suitable method of entry and exit.
For example, when using TouchKey, younger household members can come and go using features such as geolocation, voice unlock command, and the Bluetooth connection via the ERA Home app. Whereas those less comfortable with those newer methods can use the simple biometric fingerprint scan on the lever of the handle or even the traditional key method.
Accessibility for all
TouchKey is a smart security solution that also allows those with restricted mobility and motor skills to feel confident entering and exiting their home, without the need to handle keys and lift heavy handles.
As mentioned, the solution can simply scan the fingerprint of the person who requires access and grant it for a fuss-free entry, as long as their authenticated prints are stored on the system.
What’s more, the mechanical hardware locks automatically behind the entrant with no requirement to secure the door or lift a heavy handle. When it's time to leave, the door opens with ease by twisting the ergonomically designed internal thumbturn.
Lifestyles preferences
Not only does TouchKey benefit those with accessibility problems, it is also useful for children with heavy school bags and kits, and parents with shopping, given that a simple scan of a finger or the use of geolocation and Bluetooth can grant access.
Solutions like TouchKey also come in handy for those who need one-time access to a residence. For example, for healthcare professionals, extended family, or service providers. A digital eKey is used to grant scheduled access, which expires outside of the agreed time and can be revoked at any time.
TouchKey Opportunities
ERA’s TouchKey offers a solution to the security challenges faced in a multi-generational household; ensuring that all preferences and needs are considered.
This is achieved by combining the latest modern technology with the best in traditional hardware qualities, such as its anti-bump, anti-pick and anti-drill cylinder and its auto-fire multi-point door lock that fires six locking points upon closure.
Fabricators can capitalise on this combination, given its wide appeal. Not to mention its credentials, including its BSI Kitemark™ for Smart Residential Locking Devices. With this, homeowners are likely to be impressed with its wide offering, its high-quality and accreditations.
