Help a Parent Wear a Personal Alarm: 5 Practical Tips
If a parent is reluctant to wear a personal alarm, start by listening to their reasons. They may find it uncomfortable, worry about accidental calls or feel it makes them look dependent. Involve them in choosing a routine that suits them.
5 ways to help someone wear a personal alarm comfortably
- Ask what is putting them off. Have a calm conversation and give them time to explain. Talk about the activities they want to continue and how they would prefer to ask for help.
- Check the fit. Ask the supplier which wrist or neck attachment is suitable for the exact button. Let the person try it while sitting, moving and reaching for the button. Follow the supplied cord and fitting instructions.
- Practise a test call together. Arrange a test with the monitoring service so they can hear the operator and know what to expect. Explain that they should say it is a test.
- Explain accidental presses. Make sure they know how to tell the operator they are safe. Check the provider’s instructions instead of disconnecting equipment or hiding the button.
- Agree a daily routine. Link putting the alarm on to an ordinary habit, such as getting dressed. Follow the exact water-use instructions and agree a charging routine for rechargeable devices. Review the arrangement with them if it is not comfortable.
The aim is to help the person wear a personal alarm willingly and know how to use it. An alarm left in a drawer will not provide the intended support.
Monthly Test Calls: Familiarizing Telecare Users with the System
Performing a Test Call
Press the Pendant Button: The elderly alarm user can press the pendant button on their wristband or neck cord.
Wait for the Operator: The operator will respond through the base unit, typically located in the hallway. Inform them that you are conducting a test call.
Reassurance and Familiarity: This process helps elderly alarm users become more comfortable using the system and ensures they know what to expect in an actual emergency.
What to do after an accidental alarm call
An accidental button press can make someone anxious about wearing the alarm again. Explain the provider’s procedure calmly. If an operator answers, tell them that the activation was accidental and that the person is safe. Follow their instructions.
Do not assume an accidental call proves every part of the alarm works. Keep the agreed testing routine and report repeated accidental activations, damaged straps or a button that is difficult to press. Ask TASK Connect for help with the fit or setup.
Addressing Concerns About Unnecessary Alerts
One common concern among older adults using telecare is the worry about bothering their emergency contacts unnecessarily. This apprehension can lead to reluctance in wearing or using their telecare pendant buttons. Here are some ways to alleviate these concerns and encourage consistent use:
Explain how the telecare system works and emphasize that it’s designed to help them stay safe without causing inconvenience. Reassure them that their contacts are willing and prepared to assist.
Let the pendant alarm user know that if the system is activated and we cannot hear them through the base unit, our operators will first call them back on their home phone or mobile number. They do this before reaching out to any of the nominated contacts. This should address concerns some elderly pendant alarm users may have about unnecessary contact with their nominated contacts.
Additional Tips for Reluctant Users
If someone remains reluctant to wear a personal alarm, discuss other support with them rather than assuming another device will solve the problem.
- Inactivity monitoring. A compatible sensor can raise an alert when expected activity is not detected under its agreed settings. Placement and timing should fit the person’s routine.
- Bed sensors. Ask which alert arrangements the exact sensor supports and how they will be configured. A single timing rule will not suit every household.
- Extra buttons or fall detection. Compatible home systems may support another pendant, a compatible Vibby or other sensors. Contact TASK Connect before buying extras so compatibility and programming can be checked before dispatch. These options do not detect every incident or replace agreed personal support.
Read about telecare accessories and sensors or the independent NHS guide to personal alarms and telecare when considering alternatives.
If you have any further questions or need additional support, please don’t hesitate to contact us.