What were your overall impressions and experience living in the QLI Smart Apartments?
I loved it!
Living with a C7 spinal cord injury means that even basic daily tasks can be exhausting, time-consuming, or impossible due to my inability to walk, use my fingers, engage m
y core, or fully utilize my triceps. However, my experience living in a smart apartment demonstrated how cutting-edge automation technology—though not all specifically designed for people with disabilities—can greatly enhance independence. With technology that included Amazon Alexa-controlled blinds, doors, lights, the shower, TV, thermostat, and Roomba, I was able to eliminate many physically demanding tasks, conserving energy for other chores, physical therapy, hobbies, and socializing. Before my injury, these tasks were just minor inconveniences, but now, without smart technology, they would consume so much energy that I’d be left unable to do the things that actually matter. This experience proved that smart home tech isn’t just about convenience—it’s about accessibility, and if integrated with universal design, it could revolutionize independent living for people with disabilities.
What was your overall impression and experience participating in the Motor Learning Program?
The MLP program helped me extend my time at QLI as an outpatient, allowing me to continue my therapy as I continued to work on my independence and transition into an advanced state of independence (including transitioning into the VA) as I prepared to move back home to California.
What do you feel liked you gained from your experience living in the QLI Smart Apartments? Any lessons learned or pieces of technology/accessibility features that you have implemented in your apartment or plan to implement in a future home?
My time in the QLI Smart Apartment gave me invaluable experience in at-home independence, showing me how cutting-edge smart technology can be adapted to fit my needs. I learned how automation can significantly reduce the physical and mental energy required for daily tasks, making life more manageable with my injury. With affordability in mind, I’ve implemented an Amazon Echo system that controls my lights, TV, and blinds, which covers my essential needs. Since I have roommates who help with household tasks, I haven’t needed to invest in more advanced setups, but I now have the knowledge to do so in a future home. Ultimately, this experience reinforced the importance of accessibility in everyday living and how small technological adjustments can lead to greater independence.
What does life look like now since discharging home?
As a medically retired veteran supported by the VA, life is relatively stable despite my injury, and my experience at QLI helped me transition with confidence. I’ve gained a stronger ability to advocate for my care and a better understanding of the resources available for people with spinal cord injuries. The time I spent at QLI allowed me to develop the skills and independence needed to live on my own, giving me the tools to successfully “graduate” and move back to California. While challenges still exist, the foundation QLI provided has made independent living not just possible, but sustainable.
