Staying Safe and Independent at Home: A Conversation with Taking Care

Click HERE to watch the episode in full

or continue reading for a recap of our informative conversation:

The Evolution of Personal Alarms:

Jo shared how personal alarms have come a long way from the basic devices of the past. While simple home and garden alarms are still available for those who primarily stay at home, Taking Care also offers advanced solutions for more active individuals. These include GPS-enabled alarms that allow users to speak directly into the pendant, providing both location tracking and two-way communication with the response team. This technology empowers older adults to maintain their independence, whether they’re walking the dog, visiting friends, or enjoying a holiday home. We discussed the latest advancements in personal alarm technology, including GPS-enabled alarms for active individuals and the discreet design of pendants, often resembling everyday jewellery or watches, ensuring dignity and encouraging wearability.

Beyond wearable alarms, Taking Care also offers home sensors that monitor activity levels. These sensors can provide valuable insights into daily routines, helping families identify potential issues and ensure their loved ones are safe and well. Jo explained how these sensors can help bridge the gap between what older adults may tell their families and the reality of their daily lives.

How Personal Alarms Work:

Jo clarified how the alarms function, emphasising that they’re not just for falls. Users can press the button for any reason – whether it’s a fall, a medical emergency, a fire, or simply needing reassurance. The alarms connect to Taking Care’s 24/7 response team via a multi-network SIM card, ensuring reliable communication even in areas with poor reception. The devices also have a 40-hour battery backup, providing continued protection during power outages.

The Importance of a Reliable Response Team:

Taking Care prides itself on its fast and efficient response team. They aim to answer all calls within 30 seconds and are trained to handle a variety of situations. The team has access to vital medical information about the user, including hearing or visual impairments, allowing them to tailor their response accordingly. They prioritise clear communication, reassurance, and ensuring that every call is resolved.

Addressing Concerns and Overcoming Hesitations:

We discussed the common hesitations some individuals have about using personal alarms. Jo explained how Taking Care helps overcome these concerns by offering a 30-day trial period with no commitment. This allows individuals to experience the benefits of the alarm first hand and understand how it can enhance their independence and safety. She also emphasised that the alarms are not just for older adults; they can be beneficial for anyone living alone or with specific health conditions.

Jo emphasised the importance of personalised care, highlighting how the response team utilises medical information to tailor their interactions. For individuals with memory issues, the team can recognise patterns of repeated calls and provide reassurance without unnecessary intervention. They are also trained to recognise potential health issues, such as UTIs or delirium, based on changes in behaviour and confusion, alerting family members to potential problems.

Automatic Fall Detection and Passive Monitoring:

Jo explained the crucial role of automatic fall detection, providing peace of mind for both users and their families. This feature automatically alerts the response team in the event of a fall, even if the individual is unable to press the button. We also explored passive monitoring solutions, such as discreet sensors that track activity levels in the home. These sensors can provide valuable insights into daily routines, helping families identify potential changes in behaviour or inactivity that may warrant further investigation. Jo explained how these systems can help families gently assess their loved ones’ well-being without making them feel intruded upon.

Worries and Hesitations:

Jo shared common concerns that older adults have about falls and emergencies, including fear of hospitalisation and a desire to remain at home. She also discussed how hearing about accidents happening to others can prompt individuals to consider their own safety. We addressed the reluctance some individuals feel about using personal alarms, emphasising the importance of gentle conversations and highlighting the benefits of increased independence and peace of mind. Jo shared a heartwarming anecdote about a caller who was initially hesitant but felt relieved and empowered after learning about the solutions available.

ActiveAlert: A New Level of Care:

Jo highlighted Taking Care’s innovative ActiveAlert system. This unique early warning system analyses alarm call patterns and notifies designated family members of any unusual spikes in activity. This proactive approach provides families with valuable insights into their loved one’s well-being and allows them to address potential issues before they escalate.

The Importance of Open Communication:

We discussed the best way to approach conversations about personal alarms with older parents who may be resistant to the idea. Jo recommended gentle communication, using third-party stories to initiate the discussion, and focusing on the benefits for the individual, such as regaining confidence and independence. She also highlighted the resources available on the Taking Care website, including the “Have the Talk” campaign, which offers tips and guidance for families.

Accessibility and Support:

Taking Care is committed to ensuring their services are accessible to everyone. They take detailed medical information from users, including any hearing or visual impairments, so the response team can adapt their communication methods accordingly. They also offer support and guidance to families, helping them understand the different options available and choose the best solution for their needs.

We at The Live In Care Company believe that personal alarms can play a vital role in supporting independent living. We’re grateful to Jo and Taking Care for sharing their expertise and shedding light on the latest advancements in personal alarm technology. If you’re considering a personal alarm for yourself or a loved one, we encourage you to contact Taking Care via their website Taking.care or by calling 0800 085 7371 to learn more about their services. They can help you find the perfect solution to ensure safety, independence, and peace of mind.

The Live In Care Company

To find out more about live-in care services for a loved one please contact our friendly team on 0118 449 2373 or email enquiries@theliveincarecompany.co.uk