Department of Health

Key messages

  • Personal alarm call services available for sale
  • Pre-programmed mobile devices that automatically call or send text messages
  • New technology such as mobile devices worn on the wrist and smart phone applications that can send pre-programmed messages and/or act as a telephone
  • Arranging wellbeing checks with family, friends or neighbours, or organised services such as Community Registers.

People who are living on their own may not be eligible for PAV, or they may not want to use it. But there are other ways they can keep in touch and stay safe at home.

There are other personal alarm services available privately. These services can be monitored or non-monitored. Search the internet for personal alarm/alert services/systems for a list of services.

Some telephones and mobile phones can be programmed to automatically call or send a text message to up to four numbers when a switch is flicked.

Some telephones have functions that help people with impaired mobility. These may come with emergency pendants that activate calls to programmed numbers.

New technology such as mobile devices worn on the wrist can send pre-programmed messages and/or act as a telephone when assistance is required.

Applications for smart phones can monitor people on a daily basis and send pre-programmed emails or messages confirming daily wellbeing and/or if assistance is required.

Family, friends or neighbours can call or visit each day.

Neighbours can establish some community watch activities, including developing a signal for assistance (for example, raising the front room blinds each morning can signal everything is okay, but uncollected newspapers and mail may mean someone needs help).

Community registers have volunteers who call older people and those with limited mobility and disabilities to check how they’re going. Seniors Information Victoria lists areas with a register.

Keeping in Touch is a service for people aged 75 years and older living in public housing. Office of Housing customer service officers telephone weekly on an agreed day between 8 am and 10 am, Monday to Friday.

Reviewed 09 September 2015

Health.vic

Contact details

Wellbeing and Community Support team

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