Smart, Secure and Future-Ready: Embracing Technology at Siddington Park

Soon after moving to Siddington Park in Cirencester in March 2025 with his wife, Carol, Roy (69) decided to upgrade their new two-bedroom apartment with a significant amount of smart technology. Roy comments: “It’s something I used extensively in our previous home. It’s not only an interest of mine but it makes our lives so much easier, I couldn’t imagine our home without it.”

Siddington Park incorporates the latest, contemporary technologies in line with the wishes of modern retirees.  Consoles for emergency calls have been installed which offers many other facilities and benefits including video audio entry and the villages internal messaging service, allowing residents to feel safe and secure both while at home and away.

Each apartment at Siddington Park has access to the communal telephone, television and Wi-Fi systems, helping residents to keep in touch with family and friends, and alleviating the stress when dealing with multiple utility and service companies.

Roy adds: “Security and easy access is an important factor to us. So many of the features we have in place utilise smart systems that include presence and contact sensors, a monitoring video doorbell and smart door lock, giving us peace of mind about the safety of our home, belongings and ourselves.”

In addition to entertainment systems such as speakers and a smart TV, Roy and Carol have a host of impressive smart technology systems integrated into their property including smart lighting, electric blinds, electric curtain closers, smart ceiling fans and smart air purifiers. As part of this system, he has used smart sensors for detecting water leaks open doors/windows, movement, presence and light levels.

From a health and wellness perspective, Roy and Carol use wearable technology such as a smart ring, smart watches and a smart weighing scale to keep track of their health.

Roy says that he is an ‘early adopter’ when it comes to technology and often likes to use the latest new products and systems. He adds: “Once you start using smart technology and AI systems, you start to see the benefits in so many ways. It really is at the forefront for us, whilst keeping it as affordable as possible.

“I’m one of the more technology aware owners at Siddington Park and many of my neighbours come to me for advice. I always think it’s best to understand what is available and get what you need when it’s a choice so you can get used to it, before it’s a necessity. Changes as simple as having a universal remote, makes life so much easier for many.

“I also think being key-less, as my wife and I are, is so beneficial. Especially as we get older, removing the need for extra items and additional things to remember or think about, is great. Smart door locks were so useful to install and it means we can go out with just our phone and smart watch.”

As the use of AI continues to rise, Roy shares his thoughts: “Whilst I think AI can be overused somewhat, I do see it as such a useful tool when it comes to improving communication and curing problems. Over time, mobility can become a bigger challenge so I do believe voice control, with the help of AI, is important. It’s also useful for emergency alarms and fobs.

“Technology is not something to be scared of, it’s there to assist. We’re in a lucky position to have all of this in place before it’s too much to understand and potentially too late. It’s a good feeling to be prepared with all the technology we have in place. We love the benefits our smart home gives us.”