Tennessee resident Gerald seems pretty delighted with his new living situation. He cheerfully describes it in a new video from Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: “Before all this, I didn't have much freedom. I like having tea in the morning when I get up for my breakfast. I didn't know how to cook when I first moved. I've come a long way in learning how to do things."

Gerald’s journey to independence with technology is the latest video feature from TN DIDD’s new Enabling Technology pilot program. Gerald is one of the first to receive enabling technology services through St. John’s Community Services, a non-profit which is part of that pilot program. As a result, Gerald’s home is now equipped with SimplyHome technology that includes a stove sensor, verbal cues if he leaves the stove on, a video doorbell, and a medication dispenser.

From enjoying his job to learning to cook on his own, Gerald is loving how technology contributes to his independence: “It keeps me going. And it makes me more independent. And I like it.”

Watch Gerald’s story below. Happy Holidays, Gerald, and congratulations on your newfound independence!

Read more about Tennessee DIDD’s enabling technology pilot program, or find out how your agency can get started with enabling technology!