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ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Why do I need a panic button?

Worried how to get help when on your own? A panic button can be used by the elderly to quickly get help in an emergency.

August 05, 2020

Panic buttons for the elderly

Panic alarms for the elderly are designed to protect you at home by offering help quickly when you need it most. They offer peace of mind and an extra layer of security if you become ill, have a fall or feel at risk in any way whilst in your home.

 

How do panic alarms work?

A panic alarm is a small, discreet device that can be worn as a pendant around your neck or on your wrist like a watch and works in the home and garden. It is easily hidden under a shirt or sleeve should you want to keep the device hidden.

The panic button comes with an alarm base unit that is connected to your telephone landline. However, if you don’t have a landline, it is possible to get a digital personal alarm for the elderly unit that uses a SIM card like a mobile phone does. The alarm units have a loudspeaker and a built-in microphone and allow clear communication between you and the response operator.

When you feel like you may be in danger, have a fall or need assistance, simply press the button on your alarm to be connected to one of our dedicated response staff who are ready to help you 24/7 in the event of an emergency.

We aim to answer alarm calls within 30 seconds, so you can be assured that help is available quickly day or night.

You can then speak through your alarm unit to a friendly operator, who will help you by contacting your emergency contacts or alerting the emergency services if necessary.

 

In what situations would you use a panic alarm?

 A panic alarm can be used in all sorts of different emergency situations where you might need help quickly but are unable to get to the phone. Even if you press your button and are unable to speak, our emergency response staff will make sure you get the help you need.

A panic alarm can be used if you:

  • Have a bogus caller or intruder.
  • Feel unwell.
  • Have an accident or a fall.
  • Suffer from epilepsy.
  • Feel intimidated by someone or in danger.

 

How do I install a panic alarm?

Installing a panic alarm is simple and you can do it yourself without any special skills or tools needed.

For an alarm unit that connects to your telephone landline, all you need to do is plug the alarm unit into a telephone adaptor that then plugs into your telephone wall socket. After setting the time and date on your alarm unit, you will need to complete a range test that one of our operators will guide you through step by step.

For an alarm unit that does not need a telephone landline, you simply plug the unit into a mains power socket and check to see that the alarm has good signal in the location where it is placed. You would then go through the steps of setting the time and date and completing a range test just as you would for the alarm unit that connects to your telephone landline.

You can find panic alarm installation guides on our website.

If you have mobility problems or just don’t feel confident installing the alarm yourself, one of our field team can come out and install the alarm unit for you at your home.

 

Panic buttons for the elderly

Independent living products brochure

Learn how personal alarms and home monitoring solutions can keep you or your loved ones safe and independent at home.

Download brochure

Ways to support independent living

Independent living products brochure

Learn how personal alarms and home monitoring solutions can keep you or your loved ones safe and independent at home.

Download brochure


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