Linked Network For Checking On Older People.

[Jennykenny]

I recently had two older friends who found themselves in serious circumstances.
One fell, and wasn’t found for some days. The other was recently burgled while she was at home and was very appreciative of help and support from neighbours, and I myself slipped on the bathroom floor yesterday, but managed to right myself before any serious damage was done.

I know that there are very good alarm systems available, but many older people, including myself, don’t feel we have got to that stage.

Does anyone remember the old joke of the housewife putting a box of OMO washing powder in the kitchen window to signal that the Old Man was Out, and she was free to receive her lover? I’m trying to think of something similar where we can indicate that we are alive and well, without being obvious.

Not everyone has access to the Internet, nor wants it.
Not everyone wants someone banging on the door every day.
What I am looking for is perhaps an article someone has read about how it is done in Sweden or The Netherlands, anywhere?
Any thoughts??

[-SharonA-]

Open curtains that signal help is needed.

[woofgang]

not sure how that would help

[ummmm]

Why don't you phone each other at the same time everyday.

[Baldric]

///I’m trying to think of something similar where we can indicate that we are alive and well///
If you put something in the window to indicate that you are alive and well, and then have an incident, your window display will still be telling everyone that all is well.

[Tilly2]

I think not drawing the curtains for a few days might alert the neighbour, assuming that your 'event' happened at night time.

[Old_Geezer]

Go out into the garden and yell Monty Python sketches at the top of your voice, every hour, on the hour. Then the time you don't manage it, someone will know something's wrong and investigate. And only about an hour's wait for help, too. Brilliant !

[margarettom]

Why don't you all just get alarm buttons to wear. Getting help to people who have fallen, amongst other things, is what they are for, so apparently at least one of you has got to that stage and you nearly got there it seems.

[Jennykenny]

Thanks all.
You’re right Margaret. But it’s a bit like wearing hearing aid. I know I need one, but I feel I am admitting defeat to the spectre of old age by getting one.
Will have to think again, in every way.

[woofgang]

I have started to do minor precautions like carrying my mobile phone with me if I need to go up a ladder or up into the attic. Originally I did this because DH and I moved out to America for his job in the 90's before mobile phones and texting. He spent a lot of time travelling away from the US and it struck me one day that no one in the whole of that country would know or do anything if I vanished. I started carrying our cordless phone handset around with me in the house when doing anything slightly risky so at least if I was conscious I could call 911. For many years it wasn't needed but recently I have resurrected the habit.

[bednobs]

you could put a new sign up every day
"tuesday 26.06.18 - im alive and well"
but is that really better than having a button?

[hellywelly4]

I have used a panic alarm button since my husband died when I was 63. My daughter asked me to, as she had worked for Age Concern and knew some terrible stories. I know of a lady who was unable to get help for three days. They had to break the door down and she was found lying in what I won't describe here but just think- your body still needs to expel things!! It's nothing to do with giving in to age Jenny, it's being practical and sensible if you live on your own. AgeUK do do them and I think you can get them through your local council. As I live on a sheltered scheme I have one provided.
You can still fall at any age, and also have a sudden illness. They are also used to alert the police if someone is prowling about outside.
I feel very strongly about this ( as you can tell!). Sorry to rant xx

[roopower]

Please get an alarm. It isn't obtrusive and could save your life. My mum had one and when she had a fall it may well have saved her life.

[ladybirder]

My mother often fell over going to or from the toilet during the night. Never once did she have her alarm with her. It was always hanging the headboard!!