Bea Oedai

In 2016, the inhabitants of the Steenhouwersgaarde were interviewed by the municipality. We were asked what we think our lives will look like in 5 years and what facilities we think we need to be able to stay at home safely and comfortably.

Based on these interviews, the municipality set to work, which eventually led to iZi. Volunteers were sought to strengthen and build the iZi community. I immediately indicated that I would like to be part of this and that is how I started furnishing the experience home. 

Once the house was ready, we decided to organize a coffee morning every Friday, where visitors could easily drop by for a tour of the house. This was a success and I still love to do it. As residents of the Steenhouwersgaarde, we were also allowed to test devices at home for free during the first year and share our experiences. I received the robot vacuum cleaner, the sensor system that allows me to monitor my heart rhythm, sleep and diet, and the door viewer.

Together with a number of other ambassadors, I am also part of the Digigroep, which was founded to teach people how to use their smartphone, tablet, laptop and other digital devices. This is a good example of how accessible, cozy and educational iZi is, with a view to now and in the future.