It’s never easy watching our parents get older, and although many remain independent and active well into later life, changes in health, mobility, or confidence can sometimes make us worry about their safety. So, with that, many wonder whether a personal alarm may be suitable for their vulnerable parents.
A personal alarm can be a lifeline, offering peace of mind that help is available 24/7 at the press of a button, or even automatically if a fall is detected. For families, it provides reassurance that your loved one isn’t facing these challenges alone.
So, how do you know when it’s time to consider a personal alarm for your parents? Here are some signs to look out for.
1. They’ve had a recent fall
Falls are one of the leading causes of hospital admissions for older people, but even if your parent wasn’t badly hurt, the experience can knock their confidence and increase the risk of future falls.
A personal alarm with fall detection, like our Digital Fall Alarm or out and about GPS alarms, ensure that help is raised automatically, even if your parent is unable to press the button or speak.
2. They live alone or spend time alone
If your parent lives alone, or is alone for large parts of the day while you’re at work or busy, a personal alarm can provide reassurance for everyone. With one, they know they can get help quickly if needed, and you’ll have peace of mind that they’re not left vulnerable.
3. They’re becoming less mobile
They could suffer with arthritis, balance issues, or general frailty which can make everyday tasks that little bit harder. Mobility challenges also increase the likelihood of falls or accidents around the home, so something like our Digital Personal Alarm, with reliable coverage of up to 300 metres from its base unit, ensures they’re protected throughout the home and garden.
4. They’ve been in hospital recently
If your parent has had surgery, an illness, or another health setback, they may feel anxious about being at home alone. A personal alarm can bridge the gap between hospital.
5. They have a long-term health condition
Conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s, or dementia can make parents more vulnerable. A personal alarm ensures that in an emergency, whether it’s a fall, sudden illness, or disorientation, that they can get help quickly.
For dementia especially, pendants with GPS tracking like the Taking Care Anywhere alarm are invaluable, as they allow loved ones and emergency services to locate your parent if they become lost.
6. They’ve shown signs of being fearful of falling or being alone
Sometimes, the biggest indicator isn’t physical but emotional, so if your parent seems anxious about being alone, or avoids certain activities because of a fear of falling, a personal alarm can restore confidence. With support just a button-press away, many older adults feel able to live more independently.
7. You feel worried when you aren’t close by
It’s natural to worry about your parents, especially if you don’t live nearby or can’t check in as often as you’d like. A personal alarm provides reassurance for families as well as users; with Taking Care, your loved one is connected to a 24/7 UK-based Emergency Resolution Team, so you’ll know someone is always there to respond.
8. They still enjoy getting out and about
Independence is important, and many older adults still enjoy walking, shopping, or visiting friends. However, being away from home can sometimes increase risks.
But rest assured, the Taking Care Anywhere alarm is designed for exactly this situation. With GPS technology and mobile network coverage, it works almost anywhere in the UK and ensures that even if your parent is out, lost, or unable to explain where they are, help can reach them quickly.
9. They’ve had a ‘near miss’ at home
Slips in the bathroom, struggles getting up from a chair, or difficulties using stairs can all be early warning signs that your parent may be vulnerable. Even if nothing serious has happened yet, these near misses suggest that a personal alarm could be a proactive step before an accident occurs.
10. You want them to stay independent longer
Many families see a personal alarm not as a loss of independence, but as a way to protect it; so Instead of worrying about what might happen, your parent can carry on with the things they love, knowing help is always close at hand.
Personal alarms have become more and more popular
Today’s personal alarms are more advanced than ever, giving you more peace of mind that your loved ones are as safe as possible at home and out and about. Our alarms are:
Discreet and comfortable: available as lightweight pendant alarms or wrist worn alarms.
Reliable: in-home alarms have an extended range (up to 300 metres) for gardens and large homes, whilst GPS alarms will also work when out-and-about.
Smart: featuring automatic fall detection and GPS tracking.
Connected: linking directly to a trained, UK-based team available 24/7.
So, do your parents need a personal alarm? If any of the signs above sound familiar, it may be time to consider one. A personal alarm doesn’t just offer safety, it brings peace of mind for both your parent and your family.
From our digital personal alarms for in-home reassurance, to our fall alarms with automatic fall detection, and the Taking Care Anywhere GPS alarm for those who still enjoy getting out and about, there’s a solution to suit every lifestyle.
