Emergency Response Systems

Article submitted by Becky White of Boulder Community Hospital.
For more information, she can be reached at 303-441-2200.

Many people rely on personal emergency response systems to enable them to live independently in their homes, yet have the assurance that they can get help immediately in case of an emergency.

If you are frail, have a chronic medical problem, have difficulty walking or are wheelchair bound, you know you can get assistance with just a simple push-of-a-button 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The emergency response unit works inside and around your home. You simply wear a light-weight pendant on your wrist or around your neck. When you push the pendant, this wireless system automatically connects you with a communications specialist who will determine the nature of your emergency and send help – whether it be paramedics, police, firemen or even a nearby neighbor, friend or relative. You talk to the communications specialist using a hands-free speaker phone so you don't have to pick up the telephone receiver. If you are unable to speak, the specialist will send help immediately.

You also can get a special "reminders unit" that leaves messages on your phone to help you remember your medications, doctor's appointments, social engagements or even important dates such as birthdays. These personalized messages in a familiar voice are useful and reassuring.

Personal emergency response systems put you, your family members and friends as well as your healthcare professionals at ease knowing that help will be there when it is needed the most.