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Telecare - the concept
Recent advances in home automation offer us an unprecedented level of information and control. Whether we are just out shopping or on an extended holiday in China, we can be aware of the status of heating, lighting, intruder alarms and many other home systems. For the elderly or infirm, these developments can offer new opportunities to maintain independence, without being completely isolated. Information about electrical consumption, use of equipment (e.g. kettle, television) and contingencies (e.g. fire, gas and flood alarms) can be sent to a nominated carer or monitoring station. It is also possible to quickly establish a video link to allow a more personable communication than a phone call.
Telecare is a fast evolving field and modern technologies offer an interesting alternative for those who do not wish to move into a residential care home.
What you need...
It is difficult to specify exactly what will be needed for a telecare installation, as this will depend upon the individual requiring the care, but there tend to be some common components:
- User-friendly control panel
- Television
- Media controller
- Personal computer
- Broadband connection
- Intruder and emergency alarm system
- Selection of sensors and relays
Features & benefits
Perhaps the greatest benefit of an effective telecare installation is the independence that it brings. Also, residential care can be expensive, so why pay for it if it is not wanted and not necessary? Other benefits include:
- Immediate status updates and warnings - including inactivity warning
- Secure information channel to nominated carers only
- Optional video link for ‘face to face’ communication
- Optional door camera and secure door entry system (with master keys if needed)
- Access to help and ‘panic’ button
