Understanding pendant alarms can be quite challenging, particularly when it involves the details of how the pendant alarm works. These devices are designed to provide a lifeline for the elderly and those with health conditions who might need emergency help. In this article, we’ll be addressing the top 10 most common questions people have about telecare pendant alarms.
1. What is a Telecare Pendant Alarm?
A telecare pendant alarm is a wearable device that allows the user to call for help in an emergency. It typically features a button which, when pressed, sends a signal to a monitoring centre or designated contact. It is a valuable tool for elderly or disabled individuals who live alone, offering immediate access to help if they fall or experience a health crisis.
2. How Does a Telecare Pendant Alarm Work?
The pendant alarm works by linking to a central system, either through a base station in the home or via a mobile network. When the alarm button is pressed, a signal is sent to a 24/7 response centre where trained operators can assess the situation and arrange for appropriate assistance.
3. Is the Pendant Alarm Waterproof?
Most telecare pendants are designed to be water-resistant, so they can be worn in the shower or bath – two areas where falls are common. However, it’s important to confirm this feature with your specific model.
4. What is the Range of a Telecare Pendant?
The range can vary depending on the model and the setup of your home. However, most pendant alarms have a range of at least 50 meters, which covers most home and garden sizes. More advanced models may have a GPS feature, extending their range significantly and allowing you to go out and about, too.
5. Can the Pendant Alarm be Worn at Night?
Yes, most telecare pendants are designed to be worn 24/7. They are lightweight and comfortable to allow for continuous use, even when sleeping.
6. What Happens if I Accidentally Press the Button?
If the button is accidentally pressed, it will send a signal to the response centre. Simply explain the situation to the operator – they are trained to handle such incidents and will understand.
7. Who Will Respond if I Press My Pendant Alarm?
When the alarm is activated, a trained operator at the response centre will answer. Depending on the situation, they may contact a family member, neighbour, or emergency services.
8. What is the Cost of a Telecare Pendant Alarm?
The cost can vary greatly depending on the features and service level you choose. Some services charge a one-time fee for the device, while others may require a monthly subscription for the monitoring service. Careium’s most popular in-home alarm is £17 per month.
9. Why is the alarm digital?
Digital alarms work without a phone line, have a faster connection speed, and calls are free. It also means they are future-proofed for 2025 when BT is replacing all analogue telephone lines with digital lines. The equipment uses a roaming SIM card, similar to a mobile phone, and it finds the strongest mobile phone signal in your area to send alerts to the monitoring centre.
10. Can I Wear My Pendant Alarm Outside the House?
Yes, provided you are within range of the base station or if your pendant has a GPS feature. Some advanced models, like the Careium out-and-about alarm, even allow nationwide coverage, offering peace of mind even when you’re away from home.
Telecare pendant alarms can be a lifeline for the elderly or those with health concerns, providing reassurance that help is just a button press away. Understanding how these devices work can help you make an informed decision about whether a pendant alarm is the right choice for you or your loved one. Remember, the most important thing is to choose a device that suits your needs and lifestyle. Contact us if you would like to discuss this in more detail.