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Helping you and your loved ones live well in later life

PERSONAL ALARMS

Supporting your loved one’s independence with a community alarm

Discover how community alarms can support elderly independence, with different range of alarms from Taking Care’s UK-based team.

May 01, 2025

Community alarms
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As a family member caring for an elderly loved one, you want to ensure they remain safe and independent in their own home for as long as possible. Whether it's a recent fall, health scare, or just the natural challenges that come with ageing, you’re likely researching ways to support their independence while giving yourself peace of mind.

A community alarm for the elderly could be the solution you’re looking for. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of community alarms, how they work, and why Taking Care could be the trusted provider to help you and your loved one stay connected, safe, and secure.

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What is a community alarm?

Out-and-about community alarm from Taking Care

A community alarm is a simple, life-saving device that enables elderly people to get help in an emergency. Typically worn as a pendant or wristband, these alarms connect older loved ones to a 24/7 Emergency Resolution Team via a base unit in their home.

If your loved one falls, feels unwell, or is in any danger, they can press the alarm button, and the Resolution Team will immediately respond and arrange for help, whether it is reaching out to loved ones or calling the emergency services.

Key benefits of community alarms include:

  • 24/7 Monitoring: Help is available around the clock, providing peace of mind for both the user and their family.
  • Emergency Assistance: Whether it’s a fall or a sudden medical issue, the alarm ensures a fast response.
  • Independence: A community alarm allows elderly people to live at home safely without feeling dependent on others.

Taking Care, a trusted provider, offers alarms that are designed to give your loved one maximum independence while ensuring their safety at home. Community alarms, such as those provided by Taking Care, connect users to an Emergency Resolution Team, ensuring help is always available.

How to get a community alarm?

Getting a community alarm is a simple process, but there are a few key options to consider depending on your needs and location. First, you can explore local authority-provided alarms, which may be available for free or at a reduced cost depending on eligibility criteria.

Many local councils provide these alarms to residents who meet certain requirements, such as age or medical conditions, but it’s important to note that there may be waiting lists, and the application process can be lengthy.

To apply, you would need to contact your local council and complete an eligibility check. If your local council does offer a community alarm service and you are eligible, the alarms offered will likely be basic devices without the newer functionality to help keep you safe.

Alternatively, private providers like Taking Care offer a faster and more flexible solution. You can usually order an alarm online at any time, with the benefit of next-day delivery and no waiting lists.

The application process is straightforward, and customer service teams are available to help guide you through the process and ensure that you choose the right alarm based on your loved one’s needs. Taking Care offer discounts and savings depending on the alarm and subscription package, so as many people as possible can benefit.

Taking Care also has a range of personal alarms with different features such as fall detection, GPS tracking, and waterproof alarms, providing additional peace of mind. We also offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can test the system to ensure it meets your expectations before committing long-term.

In both cases, it’s important to compare the available features, response times, and costs before making a decision, ensuring that you choose the option that best supports your loved one’s safety and independence at home.

Why consider a community alarm?

Community alarms are not just about responding to emergencies; they provide peace of mind and practical support. Here’s why they’re a valuable investment:

  • Greater Independence: Your loved one can feel confident living on their own, knowing that help is just a button press away.

  • Reassurance for Families: As a busy family member, having a community alarm means you won’t have to worry constantly about your loved one’s safety.

  • Faster Response in Emergencies: With quick access to the trained Emergency Resolution Team, a community alarm can make the difference in critical situations.

Can I get a community alarm from the NHS?

Find out more about NHS recommendations for personal alarms.

NHS personal alarms

Why choose Taking Care for your community alarm?

When it comes to protecting an elderly loved one and ensuring their continued independence at home, choosing the right community alarm provider is important. Here are some reasons why thousands of families trust us to keep their loved ones safe:

  • UK-Based monitoring teams: We offer 24/7 support with Emergency Resolution times of 30 seconds.

  • Tailored alarms: From fall detection to GPS tracking, our alarms are tailored to suit your loved one’s needs.

  • Transparent pricing: With no hidden costs, our pricing is straightforward and easy to understand.

  • Award-winning service: We are proud to be rated ‘excellent’ on Trustpilot and continually invest in the latest technology to improve our service.

Range of tailored personal alarms 

Community alarms
Digital personal alarm

Digital community alarms

A simple home-based alarm offering peace of mind for those who are generally steady on their feet but want a reliable connection to help if needed.

In-home digital alarms

Digital fall alarm

Community fall alarms

Ideal for older loved ones with a history or risk of falls, this alarm includes automatic fall detection for an added layer of safety.

Fall alarms

Taking Care Anywhere out-and-about alarm

Community alarms with GPS

Designed for elderly who are active and out-and-about, this GPS-enabled alarm works both at home and on the go, providing support wherever your loved one is.

GPS tracker alarms

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.


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