« Back to Glossary Index
A Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) is a device that allows older adults or people with disabilities to call for help in case of an emergency. It typically consists of a wearable button or pendant and a base unit that connects to a phone line or cellular network.
Key Features:
- Wearable Device: A button or pendant that can be worn around the neck or wrist.
- Base Unit: A device that connects to a phone line or cellular network and communicates with the monitoring center.
- 24/7 Monitoring: A monitoring center that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Emergency Response: Operators can contact emergency services, family members, or caregivers.
- Two-Way Communication: Allows the user to talk with the monitoring center through the base unit.
- Fall Detection: Some systems include fall detection technology that automatically calls for help.
- GPS Tracking: Some systems include GPS tracking to locate the user in case of an emergency.
Who Benefits from PERS?
- Older adults who live alone.
- Individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions.
- People who are at risk of falling.
- Those who want to feel more secure and independent.
- Caregivers who want peace of mind.
The Misconception: PERS is Just “A Panic Button” and “Only for People Who Can’t Get Around.”
The Interesting Angle: PERS is Like “Having a Guardian Angel in Your Pocket” – It’s About Empowering You to Live Confidently and Independently, Not Just Waiting for an Emergency, and It’s About Providing a Safety Net for Everyday Life, Not Just Last-Minute Rescues!
- The Common Misunderstanding:
- People think PERS is only for very frail seniors and that it’s just a simple device for calling 911.
- The Real Story: Having a Guardian Angel in Your Pocket
- Think of PERS as a way to:
- Feel secure at home: Knowing help is just a button press away.
- Maintain independence: Live confidently without constant supervision.
- Get help for any emergency: Not just falls, but medical issues, fires, or intruders.
- Give peace of mind to loved ones: Knowing you’re protected.
- It is about proactive safety: Not just reactive emergency response.
- It’s about empowering you to live your life, not just waiting for a crisis.
- It’s about providing a safety net for everyday living, and not just extremely rare events.
- Think of PERS as a way to:
- Why This is Powerful:
- It changes the idea from “panic button” to “personal safety system.”
- It shows that PERS is about more than just calling emergency services.
- It helps people see the importance of proactive safety and independence.
- The “Get it Wrong” Factor:
- People think it’s only for very frail seniors, but it’s for anyone who wants added safety.
- They think it’s just a panic button, but it includes 24/7 monitoring and two-way communication.
- They think it is only about emergencies, and not about everyday security.
Why PERS is Important:
PERS provides a vital safety net for older adults and people with disabilities, helping them:
- Reduce fear and anxiety: Knowing help is readily available.
- Maintain independence: Live confidently in their own homes.
- Get timely assistance: Receive help quickly in case of an emergency.
- Improve quality of life: Feel more secure and comfortable.
- Provide reassurance for caregivers: Offer peace of mind.
- Potentially prevent serious injuries: By getting help quickly after a fall.
How to Find PERS Providers:
- AARP (American Association of Retired Persons):
- Provides information on PERS and other senior safety products.
- Link: https://www.aarp.org/
- Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs):
- AAAs may have information on local PERS providers or programs.
- Use the Eldercare Locator to find your local AAA.
- Link: https://eldercare.acl.gov/
- Medical Supply Companies:
- Many medical supply companies offer PERS devices.
- Online Retailers:
- Websites like Amazon and Best Buy sell PERS devices.
- Directly From PERS Companies:
- Many companies specialize in providing PERS services.
Resources for PERS and Related Information:
- AARP (American Association of Retired Persons):
- Provides information on PERS and other senior safety products.
- Link: https://www.aarp.org/
- Eldercare Locator:
- Helps find local services and resources for older adults, including information on PERS.
- Link: https://eldercare.acl.gov/
- National Council on Aging (NCOA):
- Offers resources and programs to support older adults, including information on safety and technology.
- Link: https://www.ncoa.org/
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC):
- Provides information on emergency communications and related technologies.
- Link: https://www.fcc.gov/
- Your Local Area Agency on Aging (AAA):
- They can provide local resources, and information regarding local programs.
- Use the Eldercare Locator to find your local AAA.
- Link: https://eldercare.acl.gov/