Recent statistics suggest that around one in three over-65s will suffer at least one fall a year. On top of this, those who do are also twice as likely to experience occasional falls in the future.

By having a personal alarm that’s accessible at any time, an individual can call for assistance if they ever have an accident or fall in the home. There are several different types of personal alarm systems available, however, so it’s a good idea to do your research on a few and find one that suits your situation.

Why choose a personal alarm?

As well as being one of the biggest causes of injury amongst older people, falls can have a significant effect on someone mentally. This is especially true if the person is unable to get up unaided and ends up left for perhaps several hours before help arrives.

A personal alarm system in the home, however, offers considerable peace of mind to our older relatives as well as friends and family. Depending on the needs, concerns and routines of an individual, certain systems may be more beneficial than others in what they can offer.

Personal alarms are often small wearable devices with a simple panic button that can be worn as a necklace or wristband, or clipped onto an item of clothing. These devices use wireless signals to activate the main alarm unit installed in the home.

Types of personal alarm

At the more basic end of the scale, an alarm system can simply make a sound loud enough for people nearby to hear. This is ideal for an elderly person living with family members, who can help in case of a fall somewhere in the home. For those living alone, however, a slightly more complex solution may be necessary.

In this case, it’s possible to get an alarm system that links to the telephone, allowing for an emergency contact to be automatically called when the panic alarm goes off. This could be a family member, trusted friend or regular care worker.

Many of these systems will have a long wireless range as well, meaning that they can work from anywhere in the house or even in the garden. Ultimately, personal alarms can greatly help those who are perhaps frail and vulnerable to continue living independently in their own homes for longer, without the worry of having to move into a residential care setting.