I’ve been exploring ways to enhance home safety, especially for elderly family members. A key concern is ensuring they’re safe and active, even when I’m not physically present. After some research, I discovered that setting up motion-detection-based alerts could be a game-changer. Here’s how I approached it and what I learned along the way.
The Goal
I wanted to receive an alert if there was no motion detected in specific areas of the house for a certain period. This would help me check in on loved ones remotely and ensure everything is okay.
The Challenge
Initially, I thought the process would be straightforward using the built-in ‘No Motion’ condition in my smart home system. However, I quickly realized that this condition only triggers after a ‘Motion Detected’ event, which isn’t ideal for monitoring prolonged inactivity. This limitation made me question if there was a reliable workaround or alternative solution.
The Solution
After some digging and reaching out to the community, I found that while the ‘No Motion’ condition has its quirks, there are creative ways to achieve the desired functionality. Here’s what worked for me:
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Using Routines with Time Delays
- I set up a routine that checks for motion every hour. If no motion is detected within that hour, it triggers an alert.
- This approach bypasses the need for an immediate preceding ‘Motion Detected’ event and allows for periodic checks.
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Integration with Smart Cameras
- Pairing motion sensors with smart cameras adds an extra layer of security. If no motion is detected, the camera can send a live feed or a recorded clip to my phone.
- This visual confirmation gives me peace of mind without having to physically visit the location.
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Automation withIFTTT
- I utilized IFTTT to create a seamless connection between my motion sensors and my notification system. If no motion is detected for a set period, IFTTT sends an alert via email or SMS.
Tips for Success
- Placement of Sensors: Ensure motion sensors are strategically placed to cover all critical areas without overlapping coverage, which can cause unnecessary alerts.
- Customizing Alerts: Set up different alert thresholds based on the time of day or specific routines (e.g., more frequent checks during nighttime).
- Regular Testing: Periodically test the system to ensure it’s functioning as expected and make adjustments as needed.
Conclusion
Setting up motion-detection-based alerts has been a valuable addition to my smart home setup, especially for elderly care. While there were initial hurdles, the community’s support and some creative problem-solving led to a reliable solution. If anyone has additional tips or alternative methods, I’d love to hear about them!
Stay safe and smart! 
zimmermans 