Telecare is the name for community alarm services that can provide reassurance for vulnerable people living alone. This service is ideal for people over 65 who are at risk of falling; people with memory problems or suffering from dementia; with physical, learning disabilities or sensory problems; or with long term conditions. It can also support people returning home from hospital or with short term illness.
How safety alarm services can help
Telecare plugs into your telephone line and mains power supply, and links to sensors that can detect things like:
- fire and smoke
- gas – natural gas or carbon monoxide
- flooding
- falls
- wandering.
If the call button is pressed or one of the sensors is triggered, someone will phone you to confirm whether it is an emergency. If it is an emergency, or if the operator cannot speak to you, they will contact your family, friends or carer, emergency services, district nurses or voluntary organisations – depending on your situation.
Choosing Telecare services
Before buying an alarm, it may help to visit your local Disabled Living Centre, where you can get independent advice and try out equipment. Be cautious of sales people who try to persuade you to buy equipment you don't need, or that is over-priced. Buying from a company that belongs to a trade association – such as the British Healthcare Trades Association – may give you some reassurance.
Cost of safety alarm services
Depending on your current financial situation, you may have to pay for the Telecare service. As part of the normal assessment process, we will tell you how much this is likely to be.
Telecare products vary in price depending on your needs and the supplier you choose. It's best to get a number of quotes before deciding on a particular supplier.
East Sussex County Council