Feel free to use this short checklist as you shop around and compare the service, pricing and equipment offered by other companies. These questions are not listed in any order as they will vary in importance based on individual needs.
Please keep in mind that we use the term PERS (Personal Emergency Response System). Many of you may be more familiar with the term Medical Alert System, however, they are synonymous.
1. Do I need to have a land line?
This is very important. Not all providers offer wireless systems for the home. In the event you do not have a land line and one is required, you will need to check with your local phone provider to determine the cost. You will then have to add this to the overall cost of your service.
2. Will my "personal help button" (transmitter) work if I am out in the yard, garage or driveway?
Be sure to inquire as to the range of the personal help button that you will wear. Most will work hundreds of feet from the base unit.
3. Do they offer more than one type of PERS?
PERS equipment and technology has advanced in the last few years with the advent of cellular, 2Way voice pendants and GPS capabilities. In addition, each person has different needs. There are many options today so be sure to get a PERS that fits your lifestyle.
4. Do they offer 2Way voice pendants (personal help buttons)?
As mentioned in question #3, PERS units have come a long way in the last few years. One major advancement is the ability to speak directly to the monitoring center through the pendant that you wear. This has become a popular choice for users and is something to consider.
5. Are there programming, activation or set up fees?
Each company is different. It is not unusual for companies to charge some sort of fee for programming/activation or in home set up. In addition, many seniors will want the device installed by the company providing the service, which not all companies offer. Be sure to ask prior to signing a "service agreement."
6. How quickly is my call answered?
When you press your "personal help button" and the monitoring center receives the call, how long does it take to answer your individual call for help? The company you are considering should know how quickly the average call is answered.
7. Can you get out of your "service agreement" if your loved one passes away or moves into a long term care facility?
Know how the company you are considering will handle this. Unfortunately it does happen. Make sure you know exactly what your financial liability will be in this situation.
8. Is the battery in my "personal help button" monitored?
What happens when the battery gets low? Most service providers track this type of vital information. Know whether or not the company your considering receives information about the battery life in your personal pendant and what they will do when and if there is a problem with your personal help button.
9. Is the "personal help button" you were waterproof or water resistant?
Can you wear your transmitter button in the bath or shower. With 45% of all falls in the home occurring in the bathroom, be sure to know whether it is simply water resistant or whether it is actually water proof.
10. What is the cost for the service and are there discounts available?
Be sure to ask if there are discounts available. Some companies will discount their monthly fees by offering an annual payment plan. Others may only offer monthly billing. Know when and how you will be billed.
 |
| Wireless Home System (Cellular Base Unit) |
 |
| Traditional Home System (Land line Required) |
Be sure to read one of our earlier notes on our blog!
Let us know if this note was helpful!
No comments:
Post a Comment