Personal alarms are great devices that provide security and peace of mind, both for their wearers and family members. However, it is not uncommon to encounter resistance in introducing a personal alarm into your life as they can be seen as a symbol of ageing or loss of independence. Also, some wearers may forget to wear their personal alarms, especially those living with dementia.

Here are some tips on how you can encourage your loved ones to wear their personal alarms, so they can continue enjoying a worry-free, independent lifestyle instead of letting the device gather dust in a drawer.

It all starts with a conversation

Your loved one may or may not know they need or could benefit from a personal alarm. For the introduction to be a success you need to have buy-in from their side, and the best way to do this is calmly illustrate why you think they could benefit from one, and to listen to their concerns and what they think overall about the idea of wearing personal alarms.

Choose the right place and time where you both feel comfortable and not stressed. Next, raise the idea by highlighting reasons they could benefit from a personal alarm. As their designated carer or support person, you’ll be well positioned to comment on or mention any previous incidents or risks that may support your points. Throughout your conversation, you should be prepared that you may face resistance to the idea - be mindful of your tone and phrasing that may be patronising since this will result in further frustration.

No one likes to be constantly reminded of their health risks. Avoid using scare tactics to emphasise your point (e.g., “Here’s what could happen if you don’t get a personal alarm”). Instead, you should recognise the person as a capable adult who is aware of their own abilities and health risks, and conversationally allow them to explore if a personal alarm could benefit them by reducing these risks.

Finally, you should be prepared not to succeed. Some people are just not ready for personal alarms. If you’ve approached the conversation in a positive way, and provided all the information you needed to inform a decision, then there is no harm in revisiting the topic later down the track. People can change their minds as time progresses and their needs change. Depending on the person, they may even re-initiate the conversation with you themselves when they are ready. It’s important that you both listen to each other’s points and are amicable in talking about it in the future to leave the door open.

Addressing common concerns about wearing personal alarms

During your conversation, you’ll both have questions for the other person related to personal alarms - how do they work? How are they worn? How are they operated? What do they do? We have compiled a common list of frequently asked questions which you can view on our dedicated personal alarms page. There is also a wealth of information readily available elsewhere on our website.

It’s a carer’s job to be as open as possible, to encourage loved ones to share their worries about wearing personal alarms as much as possible. This is also the perfect time to fact check some myths about personal alarms too:

• One of the most common concerns about personal alarms is that they are very obvious when worn - this is in fact not the case. Take this opportunity to introduce your loved ones to different designs of personal alarms. Modern personal alarms, especially those from Tunstall, are designed to be discreet, unobtrusive and comfortable. Most are worn as pendants, and can be worn around the neck (under a shirt/jumper if desired), from a belt loop, attached to a handbag/keychain, or even carried in a pocket.

• Many people believe that wearing personal alarms symbolises their loss of independence - again, the opposite is true. The main goal of personal alarms is to allow wearers to live independently. In addition, it gives the wearer and their family peace of mind knowing that help is immediately available should it be required.

List down the benefits of personal alarms

The best way to convince someone is to showcase the benefits of what they’re getting.

There are many benefits of personal alarms. And not just for seniors - lone workers and people living with a disability can also benefit from the quick response of personal alarms. For those who have mobility issues, lack confidence in safely navigating their home, are prone to falls, or don’t want to be held back from enjoying their hobbies, such as gardening or long walks, a personal alarm can be invaluable.

Personal alarm systems connect people directly to Tunstall’s professional Customer Care Consultants who will address health concerns and queries. This is a great benefit to highlight to loved ones, especially to those who usually decide to put off the need to get help just so they won’t worry their family. Through the device, wearers can immediately contact people whenever they don’t feel safe and need reassurance, advice, or assistance.

Further reading and next steps

For a more in-depth look at this topic, we’ve created a free downloadable PDF guide to having “the hard conversation” with a loved one.

If you’re considering a personal alarm for someone you know, Tunstall can help provide you with the information you need. We work with healthcare and retirement organisations throughout the Asia Pacific region to help support safe, independent living for people of all abilities and ages. Contact our team for more information about our Connected Care solutions or request a quote for your specific needs today.

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