Personal alarms are small, wearable alarm systems that can call for help in case of injury, illness or slips and falls. By pressing a button on the alarm system, an alarm will sound or the device will contact a pre-agreed relative or neighbour or a 24/7 monitoring team. These monitoring teams are trained to find out what is wrong and contact emergency services if needed.
Personal alarms can help older adults or people that live alone to feel safer at home and allow them to continue living independently despite challenges such as frailty or mobility concerns. These devices are often inexpensive, comfortable and easy to set up.
Below we have included tips on how to choose the best personal alarms for the elderly. We hope this allows you or a loved one to choose the perfect device to support you in living safely and comfortably at home.
THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PANIC ALARMS AVAILABLE
- Basic alarms – these alarms rely on a loud noise to alert people nearby that something is wrong
- Pendant alarms connected to a 24/7 emergency response centre – these pendants connect the wearer to a monitoring service trained to find out what is wrong and arrange for help
- Fall detectors – these devices have built-in motions sensors designed to detect falls
- GPS tracking alarms – these devices are designed to help family members and carers keep track of someone’s whereabouts, especially people living with dementia that may wander
SIX TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE BEST PERSONAL ALARMS FOR THE ELDERLY
1. DETERMINE SPECIFIC NEEDS AND PREFERENCES
The first step in choosing the most suitable personal alarm is identifying specific needs and preferences. Do you or your loved one need a wearable alarm that can be taken anywhere or a stationary alarm that stays in the home? Do you prefer a device with GPS tracking or one that simply alerts emergency services or loved ones? Answering these questions can help narrow down options and ensure you choose a personal alarm that meets your unique needs.
2. RESEARCH THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PANIC ALARMS AVAILABLE
There are many different types of panic alarms available, from simple pendant alarms to more sophisticated devices with fall detection, GPS tracking, and other features. Take the time to research the different options available to you and consider the pros and cons of each type of alarm. It can be helpful to think of your needs and create a list of features you would like your personal arm to have.
3. LOOK FOR AN ALARM WITH RELIABLE AND EASY-TO-USE FEATURES
When choosing a personal alarm, it’s important to look for a device with reliable and easy-to-use features. For instance, you may want to ensure the alarm has a clear and loud alarm sound or that it’s easy to activate in an emergency. Look for devices with large buttons or simple touch screens that are easy to operate for older people, and consider alarms with useful features like automatic fall detection or voice-activated assistance.
4. CHECK THE RANGE AND BATTERY LIFE OF THE ALARM
If you’re considering a wearable alarm, it’s important to check the range and battery life of the device. Make sure the alarm has a long enough range to cover the areas you frequent and that the battery life is sufficient for your needs. If you need an alarm that you can wear out and about, look for alarms with rechargeable batteries or easy-to-replace batteries to ensure the device stays powered when you need it most.
5. CONSIDER THE COST AND ONGOING FEES OF THE ALARM
Personal alarms can vary widely in cost, from inexpensive pendant alarms to more expensive devices with advanced features. When choosing an alarm for yourself or a loved one, consider your budget and how much you’re willing to spend. Additionally, some panic alarms may require ongoing fees for monitoring or other services. It can be helpful to make sure you understand the full cost of the device or the subscription before making a purchase.
6. READ REVIEWS AND ASK FOR RECOMMENDATIONS
Finally, before choosing a panic alarm you may want to read reviews from other users and ask for recommendations from friends, family members or healthcare professionals. Getting feedback from others who have used the device can help you make an informed decision and choose a personal alarm that’s right for you and will meet your needs.
HOW THE GOOD CARE GROUP CAN HELP
If challenges with mobility or frailty are preventing you from carrying out day-to-day tasks like bathing, dressing, or living your life as independently as you once did, it may be time to consider live-in care. Having the extra care and support from a live-in carer can help you continue to lead the life you are accustomed to in the comfort and familiarity of your own home.
For over 10 years, The Good Care Group has been providing quality and bespoke live-in care across England and Scotland. We’ll work with you to create a highly-personalised care plan that centres around your particular needs and preferences. Our live-in carers are trained well beyond the industry standard to provide you with round-the-clock care, support and companionship if, and when, you need it.
Along with providing respectful and discreet personal care such as support with bathing and toileting, a live-in carer can provide a number of duties and tasks designed to help you maintain your independence and comfort at home. From dressing and getting ready for bed to personalised foot care and oral hygiene assistance, live-in carers provide professional and sensitive care designed to enhance your quality of life.
Our in-house Occupational Therapist can provide guidance and expert advice on what other home adaptations can improve the safety and mobility around your home. Our holistic and health-driven approach to care is designed to improve health outcomes for our clients and support them in living a life they love.
Contact us today to learn how dedicated live-in care can benefit you and your loved one
