Advanced Technology Suggestions
Personal Emergency Response Alarms are lightweight, waterproof pendants usually worn around the neck or on the wrist. If the person falls and needs assistance, they press a button on their pendant activating a speaker unit which dials a 24 hour support call centre. This system is useful for the early stages of dementia where the wearer is able to recognise their need for help and activate the pendant.
Chair or Bed Occupancy Sensors placed under a chair pad, or on top of the mattress, are linked to a control unit which communicates with a call centre via the telephone line. The sensors can detect if a person has left their chair or got up during the night and then not returned to their bed (after allowing time for a drink or toilet break). The sensor can identify if a person has not gone to bed at night or has not got up in the morning. This product works as a stand alone or call centre based system.
Automated or Smart Home Systems can use either wireless or a ‘hard wiring’ to operate and communicate. These systems can be simple or complex, operating lights, heating and security. They have the capacity to monitor the use of electrical equipment, water usage and even identify if the water has been left running. The home owner’s movement around their home can also be monitored for any unusual changes. Automated Home Systems can be linked to a call centre or family carers only.
Telecare is a home based call centre system, using equipment that monitors the resident’s blood pressure, blood sugar levels, peak flow and other measures of health. This information is then uploaded via the set top box to the call centre or GP’s rooms for review and action if required.