Smart Home Access & Independence

(Smart Start Initiative)

The Smart Start Home Access & Independence initiative helps individuals living with physical disabilities increase independence, safety, and control within their home environment through practical assistive technology and smart home solutions.

This initiative bridges the gap between what is possible and what is actually implemented. While assistive and smart home technologies continue to evolve, many individuals lack access to assessment, funding, and implementation support needed to make these solutions work effectively in daily life.

Why It Matters

For many individuals living with physical disabilities, simple daily tasks can be challenging. Smart home and assistive technology solutions can help individuals:

• Control lights, doors, and appliances
• Improve access within the home
• Increase independence in daily activities
• Improve safety and reduce risk of injury
• Reduce reliance on caregivers
• Improve overall quality of life

However, access to these solutions often requires assessment, funding, and implementation support. Smart Start helps address these gaps through a structured, partnership-driven approach.

How It Works

Smart Start follows a clear, step-by-step process to ensure solutions are appropriate and effective:

Referral or Application
Individuals may be referred through community partners, healthcare professionals, or may apply directly.
Assessment with Qualified Professionals
When appropriate, assessments are conducted in collaboration with occupational therapists, assistive technology professionals, or other qualified healthcare providers to ensure solutions are appropriate for each individual's functional needs and home environment.
Identification of Practical Solutions
Based on assessment and individual needs, practical assistive technology or smart home solutions are identified.
Funding and Implementation
MO Better Foundation may provide funding to support the purchase, installation, or customization of solutions.
Follow-Up and Support
Follow-up ensures solutions are working effectively and meeting the individual’s needs.

This structured approach helps ensure that the right solutions are selected, installed, and used successfully.

Who It Serves

Smart Start serves Missourians living with physical disabilities who could benefit from smart home or assistive technology solutions to improve independence within their home environment.

Participants may include individuals living with:

• Spinal cord injury
• Neuromuscular conditions
• Multiple sclerosis
• Cerebral palsy
• Stroke or brain injury
• Other physical disabilities impacting daily independence

Examples of Smart Home & Assistive Solutions

Solutions may include:

• Smart lighting and environmental controls
• Smart door openers or access solutions
• Smart blinds or window controls
• Voice-controlled home devices
• Smart cameras and monitoring systems
• Adaptive switches and control devices
• Other assistive technology that improves independence

Each solution is individualized based on need and environment.

Partnerships

Smart Start is implemented in collaboration with professionals and organizations that help ensure appropriate solutions and effective implementation.

These partners may include:

• Occupational therapists
• Assistive technology professionals
• Missouri Assistive Technology
• ATvanced Care
• Rehabilitation providers
• University partners
• Community-based disability organizations

These partnerships help ensure that recommendations are clinically appropriate and that solutions are implemented effectively.

Expected Outcomes

Through Smart Start, individuals may experience:

• Increased independence in daily living
• Improved safety within the home
• Reduced reliance on caregivers
• Greater confidence using assistive technology
• Improved quality of life

Smart Start focuses on practical solutions that make everyday life more accessible and more independent.

Interested in learning more or exploring Smart Start opportunities?
Contact MO Better Foundation at info@mobetter.org or visit our application page.