The ultimate personal alarms guide for Australian seniors

As seniors age, face health challenges, or become less independent, ensuring their safety and wellbeing becomes a top priority. Personal alarms are useful assistive technology devices that provide fast assistance during emergencies, such as falls, offering peace of mind and confidence.

In this article, we dive deep into everything you need to know about personal alarms. We'll explore how they work, their key features, and the incredible benefits they bring to seniors and their caregivers.

‍

What is a personal alarm?

A personal alarm is a compact, wearable device designed for quick emergency assistance. The alarm can be activated with a simple press of a button that sends a signal, call or message for help. Most alarms are typically worn around the neck or on the wrist and are often waterproof, meaning they can be worn in the shower or bath, where the risk of accidents is higher. Many personal alarm models include additional features like falls detection and GPS location which help provide an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.

‍

Who can benefit from a Personal Alarm?

Personal alarms are beneficial for a wide range of individuals, including:

• Seniors: Especially those who live alone, are at risk of falls, or have underlying health conditions.
• Individuals with Chronic Conditions: People managing long-term health issues who may need immediate assistance.
• People with Disabilities: Those who might require help in emergencies due to physical or cognitive impairments.
• Post-Surgery Patients: Individuals recovering from surgery who need extra support during their recovery period.
• Active Older Adults: Seniors who enjoy an active lifestyle but want the reassurance of quick access to help if needed

‍

What personal alarms systems are available in Australia?

In-home personal alarms‍

Home alarms typically include a wearable waterproof pendant and a base unit that connects to the cellular network, providing coverage within a certain range of the base unit. Home alarms are usually reliable and robust. The pendant does not require charging and the base unit often includes a backup battery in case of a power failure. They are ideal for use around the house and garden and will not work away from home.

‍

Mobile personal alarms‍

Mobile alarms also use the cellular network but are not tied to a base unit. This means they can offer protection at home and on-the-go, anywhere in Australia where there is good cellular coverage. Many mobile alarms include important features such as automatic falls detection and GPS tracking that provides the location of the user in an emergency. They are recommended for active people who enjoy spending time in the community, outdoors or travel away from home. It's important to note that the alarm will often require charging every 24-48 hours

‍

Watch personal alarms

A watch alarm offers the convenience of a discreet, wearable device that provides important features like falls detection, GPS location and health apps. Like the mobile alarm, the watch alarm also works anywhere in Australia where there's good cellular reception. However, it may have a shorter battery life, higher costs, and could be complex for some seniors to use. Despite these drawbacks, the watch alarm can be a valuable tool for active seniors for ensuring safety and peace of mind.

‍

What are the different types of personal alarms?

There are 2 main types of personal alarms:

1. Monitored Personal Alarm
2. Auto-dial Personal Alarm (also called self-monitored or unmonitored alarms).

1. Auto-dial personal alarms

Auto-dial alarms are designed to call or message pre-programmed phone numbers when activated. Depending on the alarm brand, you can pre-program 4-10 phone numbers which typically include family members and friends. Some alarms can be configured contact Triple zero 000 or to leave a message for the contact. Some alarms can store basic medical information which can be helpful if a person becomes unresponsive in public.

Once the Auto-dial alarm is activated, it automatically dials the first pre-programmed number. If the person doesn't answer after a while it will the call the second number, then the third and so on until it reaches its limit. While this may sound like a safe option, it's important to note that family and friends may not always be able to pick up the call, so it could take some time before help becomes available.

There are many reasons why contacts cannot answer the call:

• Busy at work
• School pick up
• Away on holidays
• It's night time
• In a poor phone reception area
• Phone is in silent mode

Consider whether contacts will be able to respond when urgently needed, and can come quickly - ideally in less than 30 minutes. It's also important to consider whether contacts will know what to do in an emergency to get the right help. While some alarms can call 000, if the alarm user is unable to respond to the operator, they may not receive the help they need.

It's also important to mention, that Choice magazine does not recommend auto-dial personal alarms and has even awarded them a Shonky award in 2024.

‍

2. Monitored Personal Alarms

Monitored Personal Alarms are connected to a 24/7 emergency response centre with trained monitors who have the experience and knowledge to assess emergencies and take immediate actions. At MePACS, our monitors are trained in Triple Zero emergency protocols and know the right questions to ask. Unlike auto-dial alarms, the client's relevant medical information (such as previous falls, heart condition etc.) is stored securely on file rather than on the device. In an emergency, the monitor provides it to emergency services so they can tailor and prioritise their response.

Monitored alarms also allow for nominated contacts who can be called in an emergency. The difference is that when the alarm is activated, the monitor always answers the call and once they assess the emergency they will call the nominated contacts to request they assistance or notify them that emergency services were called.

The main advantages of a monitored alarm service are:

• Always ready to help - 365 days a year, 24/7
• Fast response within 2 minutes
• Trained professionals with triage experience
• Health information and medical history is kept on file
• We keep in contact until help arrives and provide reassurance
• We provide updates to your nominated contacts

‍

Which features are important in a personal alarm?

Battery life

A longer battery life is useful to get users safely through the day. Typically, home alarm pendants do not require charging and the battery lasts 2-3 years. Mobile and watch alarms have a shorter battery life and need to be recharged overnight.

Falls detection

Built-in sensors in the alarm can detect hard falls and automatically send an alert for help. This feature is important for those with a higher falls risk.
It's important to note that some falls may not be detected by the sensors. These include a roll or slump to the ground, or if the fall is broken by and object, such as a chair.
Learn more about falls detection >

Compliance with Australian standards

MePACS, and other reputable Monitored personal alarm providers, is a member of PERSL, an industry body which ensures compliance with Australian Standards for medical alarms.‍ PERSL Members have access to the latest industry updates, guidelines and best practices, promoting high-quality equipment and services

GPS location

While the accuracy of GPS location can be reduced around or inside tall buildings they can pinpoint the user's approximate location in an emergency. It's important to note that MePACS does not track the location of clients and the GPS location is only used during emergency situations.

Water and dust resistance

An ingress protection (IP) rating is the best way to identify the level of dust and water resistance for a personal alarm. The first digit applies to particulate protection (dirt, dust etc.) and the second refers to moisture protection. Generally speaking, higher numbers offer a greater level of protection.

Personal alarms with a rating of IP67 and above can be worn in the shower or bath. While some watch alarms can be worn while swimming, is not recommended to submerge them for more than 30 minutes.

‍

How does a MePACS monitored personal alarm work?

1. If a client feels unwell, experiences a falls or other medical emergency, they can quickly call for help by pressing the button on their personal alarm.
   In some cases, the alarm will automatically detect a fall and send an alert to the emergency response centre.
2. Once the alert is received by the emergency response team, a monitor will will promptly answer the call and speak to the client through the alarm or base unit. The monitor will address the client by name and ask "Are you okay?", encouraging the client to provide more details, so that they can assess the situation and get the appropriate help.
3. The Monitor will then assess the situation and get the right help - whether it's calling the client's contacts to assist or getting emergency services to help and updating the nominated contacts of the actions taken. The monitor will stay in contact with the client until help arrives.
4. If the client does not respond after the alarm is activated, the monitor will attempt to reach them via their home or mobile phone. If there is still no response, the operator will contact emergency services and update the client's designated nominated contacts. This procedure is part of the MePACS duty of care, ensuring that every client receives help in an emergency, even if they cannot communicate.

‍

Which is the best personal alarm for me?

Personal alarm requirements vary for each individual and depend on factors such as mobility, dexterity, comfort with technology, and budget. Consulting with your GP, allied health professional or support manager can provide valuable guidance and insight. Our expert consultants can also help assess individual needs and recommend a suitable alarm solution.

When assessing the need for a personal alarm, consider the following aspects:

1. Health Condition: Evaluate any chronic conditions, recent surgeries, risk of falls or frequent medical issues that might require immediate assistance.
2. Mobility: Consider the person's ability to move around independently. Those with limited mobility or a history of falls will benefit from a personal alarm with falls detection.
3. Living Situation: Assess whether the individual lives alone or with others.
4. Daily Activities: Think about the person's daily routine and activities. Active seniors who spend time outside the home might need a mobile alarm with GPS tracking.
5. Comfort with Technology: Determine the person's comfort level with using technology. Choose a device that matches their abilities to ensure they can use it effectively.
6. Budget: Consider the cost of the device and any ongoing monitoring fees. Funding may be available for eligible people.
7. Support Network: Evaluate the availability of family, friends, or caregivers who live nearby and can respond in case of an emergency.

As a general recommendation, we often suggest the MePACS Home and Mobile bundle for people who lead a mostly independent and active lifestyle - doing their own grocery shopping, meeting friends, going to medical appointments and engaging in the community. The bundle includes the home alarm, and a separate mobile alarm that clients can use when they're out and about.

For people who spend their time predominantly at home, we recommend the home alarm. The base unit can support up to 4 pendants and a falls detection pendant can be added for those at risk of falls. With a $0 upfront cost, it's a cost-effective and reliable safety solution for people living alone as well as couples.

‍

Can I get funding for a personal alarm?

Several government and state programs offer funding for personal alarms to eligible individuals, based on various criteria and assessments. These programs aim to support those in need by providing financial assistance for essential safety devices, including personal alarms.

These include:

Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP):
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme helps older Australians access entry-level support to live independently and safely at home.
Learn more >

Home Care Package (HCP):
A program designed for older Australians people with more complex care needs. Home Care Package can offer coordinated and affordable care services at home.
Learn more >‍

Personal Alert Victoria (PAV):
A free program by the Victorian government that provides emergency assistance and daily monitoring to eligible older people and people with disabilities. PAV helps people live independently in their own homes.
Learn more >‍

Personal Alert AssistanceSA (PAASA):
A program by the South Australian government that provides personal alarm funding and subsidies for eligible residents of South Australia.
Learn more >

‍

To learn more about funding for MePACS personal alarms visit our Funded Alarms Page

‍

‍

FAQ

Do you need Wi-Fi or the NBN to have a personal alarm system?

At MePACS, our personal alarms do not require wi-fi, the NBN, a landline or a mobile phone. Our alarms come with a pre-installed SIM card (included in the cost of the alarm) that is connected to the Australian mobile phone network. In an emergency, you can talk to us directly through the alarm or through the base unit.
‍

Can I join MePACS if i don't have any emergency contacts?

Our clients' safety and wellbeing is out top priority. People who don't have emergency contacts can still join the MePACS family. In an emergency, we will contact emergency services to help as needed.

‍

Why is there a monthly fee for monitored alarms?

The monthly fee covers the 24/7 monitoring by our dedicated emergency response team.
It also covers the cost of the pre-installed SIM card and any call charges from the alarm.

‍

Do personal alarms need to be installed?

In-home alarm systems usually require installation because it's important to test the range and strength of the signal to the base unit. Mobile alarms and watch alarms do not require installation.
Self-installation is an easy and cost-effective way to install the MePACS home alarm. It takes about 15-20 minutes and is done over the phone with our technical support team who provide step-by-step intructions.
Professional installation by an approved technician is available in Metro areas for an additional cost.

‍

‍

‍

If you or someone you know can benefit from the safety of a personal alarm, contact us for a friendly, no-obligation consultation with our personal alarm experts.
Call: 1800 685 329 or email: sales@mepacs.com.au

‍

‍

‍