Domotica/home automation ... why exactly?

Stevyamda

The last few years I notice a sharp increase in installation of home automation. People that can't even use/charge a smart phone correctly buy cartloads full of expensive stuff only to be dependent on that brands technology, Internet connection and people that do know this stuff. People that do know are not found in abundance.

When helping out the elderly I notice that these are a sales target and buy such "necessary" devices to improve their situation which it does not as they can not master the devices. Reality is that they bought extra stuff that they can not configure when it refuses one day. If the brain starts to become foggy home automation and apps are not understood while switches even are understood by people with dementia/Alzheimer. Internet dependency is IMHO not a blessing but a curse certainly when one does not want to know how stuff works and is interconnected. I mean we can all say: "I have no knowledge of that" but that does not solve issues. Even TVs and audio devices are connected to each other wirelessly....while cables work without configuring, maintenance, security issues and software updates as long as you live and longer. Also age does not really help when starting to buy a can of worms as you won't get younger. Reliability of electronics is laughable compared to old stuff as found in houses. Only when 100% LED light is implemented switches start to wear out faster. I recently replaced light switches installed in 1971 and the lady said that it was bad that stuff breaks down so fast [size=1.2em]

TonyHarrington

Automation can really save time and add convenience, but security is a big plus too. A good example is how smart doorbells make a huge difference. I’ve been using https://www.vivint.com/products/doorbell-camera, and being able to check who’s at the door from anywhere is super handy. No more guessing if it’s a delivery or a stranger. The motion alerts are great too, especially when I’m not home.

IeuanBright

has anyone integrated home automation purely for energy efficiency? I’m curious if the savings on electricity or heating have been worth the initial cost. Smart thermostats and automated lighting seem great in theory, but do they really make a noticeable difference on your bills over time? Would love to hear some real-world experiences.