Independent living is key to happy families

Many families have an older relative who might need help with day to day life, as time goes on, but where they will receive that care can be a matter for debate.

A recent survey commissioned by Aid Call, Age Concern’s personal alarm system, of people aged 16-69 suggests that 58% would rather the older relative remained living independently in their own home, with help and support if required, than moved in with them or into a care home.

Ann Jones, who lives in Whitchurch, Cardiff, arranged for her mother to join Aid Call. She said: “We decided as a family that mum should have Aid Call as she lives at home on her own and wants to remain living independently for as long as possible – she is fiercely independent!

Since having Aid Call, my mother has only had to use it once following a fall in the garden where she broke and bruised some ribs. The help she received that day was absolutely fantastic.

My mum finds the service a real comfort and always says how pleasant the operators at the call centre are when she carries out her monthly alarm tests. She certainly wouldn’t be without it now.”

George Burke, manager of Age Concern Enterprises (Cymru) added: “Our research shows that older people and their families value their independence and any help and support that can maintain this is invaluable. That’s the type of day to day support and peace of mind that a personal alarm offers.

“Aid Call is like the friend that’s there when you can’t be providing real assurance for the families of people who want to remain independent in their home. It offers a sense of security which enables them to go about their normal life and gives families the security of knowing they can get help at the touch of a button should they need it.”

The same survey found that 73% of those aged over 70 would rather remain living at home independently than move in with their children, another relative or into a care home.

Age Concern and Help the Aged assists over 40,000 people in the UK every year following an accident around the home through its personal alarm system Aid Call.

One touch of the button on an Aid Call personal alarm connects the distressed person to a dedicated Response Centre, which is staffed by professionally trained operators 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

The alarm system operates a two-way speech link to enable the person who has raised the alarm to talk to an operator within seconds. The operator can then in turn contact their chosen keyholder - a friend, neighbour or relative - who will come to their aid. If there is no keyholder available, the emergency services will be contacted.

The alarm is lightweight and can be worn around the neck as a pendant, on a wrist strap or clipped to clothing. It is water resistant so can be worn at all times whether in the bathroom, kitchen or garden.

You can now purchase a self-install Aid Call alarm for a gift online, please visit http://www.aidcall.co.uk/personalcare/shop/index.php.

To find out more about Aid Call or to arrange a free no-obligation demonstration, please contact your local Age Concern.