Resources and Advice

Helping you and your loved ones live well in later life

Falls Risk Score logo

Are you or a loved one at risk of a fall?

Every 10 seconds, a loved one in the UK has a fall. Find out your risk score in 2 minutes.

Telecare alarms

Telecare alarms are useful to monitor the health and safety of elderly loved ones and provide peace of mind to their loved ones. They encourage older adults to live their life independently while staying connected to assistance whenever needed.

Get Your Falls Risk Score

Every 10 seconds, a loved one in the UK has a fall. Find out your risk score in 2 minutes.

Get your falls risk score

Digital switchover

BT will replace analogue phone lines with digital ones by 2025. Our personal alarm customers will be supported during and after the switchover with our tested product range and digital alarms that don't require a phone line. Read our articles and guides for more information.

More on digital switchover

Assistive technology

Assistive technology devices can help elderly maintain independence and participate in activities they enjoy, despite health concerns. They can restore peace of mind for family members.

More on assistive technology

How we can help

The features available with panic buttons for the elderly can vary, so it's important to find the right kind of personal alarm service for your needs, whether it's for yourself or a loved one.

Personal alarms for the home and out-and-about

Have the freedom to maintain an active lifestyle, with reassurance help is available wherever you are.

An Out-and-About Personal Alarm will also work in your home so you can get help from Taking Care's Emergency Resolution Team any time of the day or night.

Compare out-and-about alarms

Not sure which personal alarm to choose?

Call 0800 085 7371, Monday – Friday, 8am - 6pm and Saturday, 9am – 5pm, to speak with a Taking Care Sales Advisor.

Elderly care experts answer biggest questions about telecare alarms

Discover the answers to important frequently asked questions regarding telecare alarms for elderly individuals. Learn how these vital systems provide 24/7 monitoring, prompt aid in emergency situations, and a sense of security for the elderly and their families.

What is a telecare alarm for the elderly, and how does it work?

A telecare alarm helps to provide round-the-clock access to assistance for the elderly. It comes with a wearable device, like a pendant or wristband, that has an alert button and a base unit that connects to a phone or cellular network. In case of an emergency, the wearer can press the button, which will trigger a call to an emergency monitoring centre or designated contacts. Trained emergency operators will then evaluate the situation and provide the appropriate assistance, such as emergency services or family members. By using a telecare alarm, older adults can get help quickly, so they can maintain their independence with added safety and security.

How can a telecare alarm benefit elderly individuals living alone?

For elderly individuals living alone, a telecare alarm is highly beneficial. It provides 24/7 access to emergency help with a press of a button, giving them peace of mind and a sense of security. In the event of a fall or medical emergency, help can be called quickly. Telecare alarms enable seniors to maintain their independence at home, knowing that support is easily accessible if required. This reduces feelings of isolation and improves their overall wellbeing.

What types of telecare alarms are available?

Different types of telecare alarms serve different purposes. Some popular types include pendant alarms that can be worn around the neck or wrist. 

Fall detection alarms automatically detect falls and trigger alerts. Having a fall at home might not sound too severe, but falls could be the reason behind some significant injuries. 

Personal alarms with GPS trackers provide location tracking for your elderly loved ones so they can be taken anywhere. They can send your location to the Emergency Resolution Team if something happens when you are out-and-about. 

For elderly loved ones with Dementia or Alzheimers, a dementia tracker that has built-in GPS can easily be tracked indoors or outdoors (provided that there is mobile coverage), and the device can be attached to a keyring or even clothing.

Preventative steps can be taken to prevent a fall by setting up home sensors for the elderly that can ‘learn’ about ‘normal’ routines and behaviour in the home through artificial intelligence (AI). The sensors will send an alert if any unusual activity occurs, such as a significant temperature change, the kettle not being used during usual times, or the fridge remaining unopened for the entire day.

These alarms can be connected to monitoring centres or family members, giving a feeling of safety and quick assistance when required.

Where can I compare telecare alarms?

For over 30 years, Taking Care has been offering personal alarm services, and we've supported over ¼ million people and their families with personal alarms. We have invested significantly in our service to guarantee that you and your loved ones receive professional and reliable assistance, giving you peace of mind while at home. Please refer to the simple comparison table on the Taking Care website to discover why Taking Care is the preferred choice of personal alarm provider in the UK.

Read Steve's story

I found the setup process easy, and the helpful Customer Services team helped me whenever needed. I carried out thorough testing across various locations within the house and garden, and the alarm worked perfectly fine.

Steve's out-and-about GPS personal alarm gives him the confidence to remain active in his local community.

Read Steve's story

Read Betty's story

My personal alarm provides me with reassurance - I'm 93 and don't have any family so my alarm gives me the confidence to carry on doing the things I enjoy.

How a Taking Care personal alarm helps Betty to remain active at the age of 93.

Read Betty's story