The introduction of Telecare products in the UK in the 1970’s was a major breakthrough in extending independent living for older people.
Before its introduction, there was little that could be done if you had a fall at home and couldn’t reach the telephone but with Telecare came the opportunity to raise the alarm and receive help in a timely manner.
Telecare in the Advancement of Technology
Since then, the technology has improved at a rapid pace. Homes can now be fitted with sensors and switches to alert third parties, whether that be a family member, close neighbour or the emergency services in the event of an issue or crisis.
From pull cords and emergency buttons through to gas sensors, room temperature sensors and fall sensors, there are a range of options now available to older people and those with limiting health conditions.
There is a great deal of evidence to suggest that the advances in Telecare have had a positive effect on patients. The UK Department of Health’s Whole System Demonstrator launched a trial of telecare services in May in 2008 in three key areas of the UK. The findings showed a 45% reduction in mortality rates and a 20% reduction in emergency admissions.
While care at home has been improving for a number of years, it is only fairly recently that products have come to market designed to safeguard vulnerable people and the elderly while they are out of their homes.
The rise of GPS trackers and combined tracking and mobile devices has been a game-changer and is giving elderly people and those living with dementia even greater security and peace of mind when out and about.
CPR Guardian in Telecare
We feel that the CPR Guardian provides the most comprehensive features for the elderly, those living with dementia and their carers.
From geo-tracking with boundary settings, a heart rate monitor, SOS button and two way calling directly from the watch, all features have been designed to safeguard the vulnerable and provide real-time information for carers and supporters via the app.
We are also constantly developing and evolving our product offering to ensure that we stay ahead of the curve in providing practical technology solutions for people with dementia.
The Future of Telecare
So what does the future hold for Telecare in the UK? This year it was announced that NHS England will collaborate with Alexa, Amazon’s virtual assistant to provide the most basis advice and information verified by the NHS.
However, in future, could this extend to voice activated emergency calls?
Similarly, there seems to be a focus on developing sensors throughout a home to build a picture of a person’s behaviour patterns over time so that loved ones can be contacted if changes occur.
While these advances are great for people at home, our products focus on providing improved quality of life and peace of mind while out of the home too.
CPR Guardian is an easy-to-use standalone mobile phone watch with an integrated SIM card. It’s a personal alarm that contacts family. They can view the location and well-being of the wearer remotely by using the Guardian mobile APP for Android and iOS. Carers can call the fall detection watch just like a mobile phone. Visit our website to learn more.
