If you are elderly, handicapped or concerned about being able to live independently, you'll want to visit BIM at the Home & Garden Show.

BIM stands for Blueroof Independence Module, whose exterior suggests nothing more than a small home addition with a door, windows and shed roof. But step inside and its purpose becomes much clearer.

The 28- by 14-foot space is set up as a combination living room-bedroom with adjacent bathroom. The most visible assistive device is the lift suspended from a track in the ceiling. Once the occupant is safely in its harness, he or she could reach every inch of the 392 square feet of living space. Unassisted, residents can get in and out of bed, take a shower, brush their teeth, use the toilet, get dressed, read a book, watch TV and use the computer.

The computer is the key to this tiny "smart" house. Internet access allows video conferencing with family, friends and doctors and touch pads give residents control over lights, climate and security systems and window shades. Combined with sensors, the computer allows caregivers to monitor residents' health, medications, even take their blood pressure. Cameras and sensors can also tell if someone has fallen or if the water is running.

Most of these functions were first available in the Smart Cottage that Blueroof unveiled in 2005. The McKeesport-based company built a two-bedroom, handicapped-accessible prototype at the corner of Locust and Spring streets and has since built nine more, including a 6,000-square-foot version in White Oak and group homes in Penn Hills and North Versailles. The smart cottage's cost -- at least $100,000 for a one-bedroom unit two years ago -- has always been a concern, said Blueroof executive director John Bertoty, who started the company with Penn State-McKeesport engineering professor Robert Walters, Jerry Gesmond and Mike Richey. BIM, which can be attached to an existing house, offers the same features for a cost of about $40,000 to $50,000, Mr. Bertoty said.

"That's real independence," he said.

The Blueroof Independence Module will be open for tours on the second floor of the convention center.