A personal emergency response system (PERS) allows individuals to call for help by pressing a button. It is more affordable than in-person monitoring, allows independence for older adults, and provides immediate assistance in emergencies. A PERS works by sending a radio signal from a button transmitter to a console that automatically dials preselected emergency contacts or an emergency response center. Components include a transmitter, console, and emergency response monitoring. PERS are recommended for those living alone, seniors, parents, outdoor enthusiasts, and people with medical conditions.
2. Table of Content
โ What is a PERS?
โ Benefits of a PERS
โ Why not cell phones?
โ How a PERS works
โ Components of a PERS
โ GPS monitoring
โ Who should own a PERS device?
โ References
3. What is a PERS?
Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) is a medical alert system that
provides professional assistance at the touch of a button. It is designed to let
someone help in case of an emergency.
4. Benefits of a PERS
โ More affordable than any other in-person monitoring system
โ Allows older adults to retain their independence
โ Provides an immediate response if a problem occurs
โ Offers greater peace of mind
โ Simple to use
5. Why not cell phones?
โ They will not provide the exact location though they can provide the cell tower
โ If the phone buttons are too small or difficult to push it may not be accessible
in an emergency situation
โ The phone might not be charged
โ The phone might be out of reach in an emergency situation
6. How a PERS Works
โ At the time of an emergency, the PERS user presses the transmitterโs help button.
โ It sends a radio signal to the console
โ The console automatically dials one or more pre-selected emergency numbers.
โ Most PERS are programmed to telephone an emergency response centre where
the caller is identified.
7. Types of Personal Response Systems
โ Two-way personal emergency response system with 24/7 monitoring
โ Two-way personal emergency response system, unmonitored, but calls 911 or
another number
โ Two-way personal emergency response system with speakerphone pendant,
monitored or unmonitored
โ Cellular personal emergency response systems, unmonitored, calls 911
8. GPS Monitoring
If emergency response monitoring is desired outside of the home, systems
with a GPS can provide this type of coverage by connecting to a cellular
network if a problem occurs. This enables the wearer to have access to help
in any location where a mobile phone can pick up a signal.
9. Components of a PERS
โ A radio transmitter
โ A console connected to the userโs device
โ An emergency response center that monitors calls
10. Who should own a PERS device?
โ Parents with young children
โ People who live alone
โ Empty nesters
โ The chronically ill or injured
โ Seniors
โ Outdoor enthusiasts