Council / Folk urged to check telecare alarms amid reports of malfunctions
PEOPLE with personal telecare alarms are being urged to make sure that they are tested monthly to ensure that the devices still work.
Shetland Islands Council (SIC) staff have been made aware of reports of malfunctions and alarms not working with the digital network they are on.
Personal telecare alarms allow many individuals needing support to live independently at home, knowing that they can connect to help and support when it is needed.
Typically, an alarm would connect to a 24/7 call monitoring centre, who then contact a nominated responder, usually a family member or someone living nearby, to check on the person who has activated the alarm.
Throughout the UK, traditional analogue networks are being replaced with digital phone services, which could create some challenges around how analogue telecare devices connect.
In the first instance for issues with the network, it is recommended that clients contact their landline provider (such as BT, EE, Sky, PlusNet) to report any connection concerns.
The council’s community occupational therapy team are in the process of switching to digital alarms too in the coming months, and will be in touch with individuals when this work gets underway.
Laura Hinkelthein from the SIC’s occupational therapy team said: “We would really encourage anyone with a personal alarm to make sure it’s tested every month, either by themselves, their family members or carers.
“Testing can be done by pressing your digital alarm to ensure it connects with the Alarm Receiving Centre.
“You should hear a voice through your device when you press the alarm and you can then advise the service that you are completing a ‘test’.”
“With changeovers taking place from analogue to digital services, it’s really important to check that telecare alarms continue to work as they should, offering that reassurance that the Alarm Receiving Centre receives your call if you need help.”
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