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.

1. A Comprehensive Guide to a
Personal Emergency Response
System (PERS)

2. Table of Content
● What is a PERS?
● Benefits of a PERS
● Why not cell phones?
● How a PERS works
● Components of a PERS
● GPS monitoring
● Who should own a PERS device?
● 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
● More affordable than any other in-person monitoring system
● Allows older adults to retain their independence
● Provides an immediate response if a problem occurs
● Offers greater peace of mind
● Simple to use

5. Why not cell phones?
● They will not provide the exact location though they can provide the cell tower
● If the phone buttons are too small or difficult to push it may not be accessible
in an emergency situation
● The phone might not be charged
● The phone might be out of reach in an emergency situation

6. How a PERS Works
● At the time of an emergency, the PERS user presses the transmitter’s help button.
● It sends a radio signal to the console
● The console automatically dials one or more pre-selected emergency numbers.
● Most PERS are programmed to telephone an emergency response centre where
the caller is identified.

7. Types of Personal Response Systems
● Two-way personal emergency response system with 24/7 monitoring
● Two-way personal emergency response system, unmonitored, but calls 911 or
another number
● Two-way personal emergency response system with speakerphone pendant,
monitored or unmonitored
● 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
● A radio transmitter
● A console connected to the user’s device
● An emergency response center that monitors calls

10. Who should own a PERS device?
● Parents with young children
● People who live alone
● Empty nesters
● The chronically ill or injured
● Seniors
● Outdoor enthusiasts

11. References
● https://aginginplace.org/comprehensive-guide-to-personal-emergency-
response-systems/
● https://seniorsresourceguide.com/articles/art00450.html

12. THANK YOU