What OTs check before recommending voice control for a bed or recliner

Voice control is an access solution. It changes how a person operates a bed or chair they already need. This checklist sets out what to consider, and where we take over.

1. Is positioning clinically relevant?

Voice control matters most where changes of position need to happen, for comfort, pressure care, breathing, eating, transfers or simply sitting up to read, and the handset is what stands in the way.

2. What is the barrier with the handset?

• Reduced hand strength, dexterity or endurance.

• Pain, spasticity or involuntary movement affecting fine motor control.

• Difficulty finding or holding the handset, especially overnight.

• Function that fluctuates through the day or over time.

• Relying on carers for small, frequent adjustments.

  
  

3. Will Alexa understand them?

Commands are short (“Alexa, head up”), but speech needs to be consistent enough for Alexa to recognise. It is worth trying a few phrases using voice commands in the Alexa phone/tablet app, at the time of day the client tires. Think too about remembering the commands; we leave a command card.

If voice isn't reliable, look at button or app control: see When Voice is hard.

4. Safety

• On a lift chair, standing up needs feet on the floor and a clear space in front.

• Who else is in the room (children, pets) when the bed or chair moves?

• Movements can be stopped by voice, and the original handset stays as a back-up.

• With a Smart Button, movement can be set to happen only while the button is held.

  
  

5. The environment

Wi-Fi in the room, a power point for the Alexa speaker, and who will look after the Amazon account. Shared homes and group settings need a little more planning, which we do with you.

6. The bed or chair

Is it compatible? A photo of the control box label and the product label is enough for us to tell you. See Which adjustable beds work with Alexa?.

7. Funding

See Funding voice control for a bed or recliner for the NDIS and Support at Home pathways.

What we do, so you don't have to

Prescribers aren't expected to configure anything or manage the system. We confirm compatibility, configure the module, install and calibrate it, test every command, train the client and their carers, and provide ongoing support.

Training for OT teams

We run in-service sessions for OT teams, with CPD certificates for attendees.

Please Contact Us if you think this might be right for your team.

Refer a client, or call 1300 165 357 to talk through a case.