Disabled veterans often have a long road to independence in civilian life, but the Tunnel to Towers Foundation hopes to make this transition easier through smart home tech. Based out of Staten Island, New York, the charitable organization is working closely with general contractors and architects to construct smart homes that utilize technology to help better meet the needs of disabled veterans. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has already spent over $60 million to construct 75 smart homes.
Some of the technology featured in each smart home includes multi-zone audio systems for the treatment of PTSD, motorized entry and exit doors, and a centralized phone system with room-to-room intercoms and front door communications. While the smart home initiative is a big part of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the organization is also hoping to pay off mortgages for service members who have been injured or killed.
Veteran-Focused Smart Homes
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation Uses Smart Tech to Help Disabled Vets
Trend Themes
1. Smart Home Technology for Disabled Veterans - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing and implementing advanced smart home technology to improve the quality of life and independence for disabled veterans.
2. Multi-zone Audio Systems for PTSD Treatment - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating audio systems specifically designed for the treatment of PTSD to enhance therapy and support for veterans.
3. Mortgage Assistance for Injured or Fallen Service Members - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introducing innovative financial solutions to help pay off mortgages for service members who have been injured or killed.
Industry Implications
1. Home Automation - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing smart home automation systems that cater to the specific needs of disabled veterans.
2. Therapeutic Technology - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Advancing the development of audio and sensory technologies to improve mental health treatment, particularly for PTSD.
3. Financial Services - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating innovative financial services and programs to assist service members with mortgage payments and financial stability.