ARE you elderly and less agile than you used to be or suffer with long-term health needs but wish to maintain an independent life in your own home?

If you are, you could benefit from our Lifeline Alarm Service, which uses health care technology to summon assistance at the touch of a button.

The technology consists of an alarm unit connected to the telephone line and a button to call for assistance if:

• you have become immobile or incapacitated

• your security is being threatened, or

• you are suffering from a medical emergency.

The alarm is also supplied with a wireless pendant worn around the neck or wrist, allowing help to be summoned from anywhere around your house or garden.

Calls for assistance are answered by specially trained staff 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year who will immediately contact the family members, friends or neighbours nominated. In the case of a medical emergency, the appropriate emergency service will also be called.

It also provides people with the freedom to live their life independently knowing that they can obtain assistance when needed.

Mrs ‘B’ of Tiverton recently told us that she finds “it reassuring and I wouldn’t be without it”.

She added: “My husband goes out to do the shopping etc. I feel quite safe as if I activated the pendant on my wristband I know that the control centre can get in touch with him and he will be here within a few minutes.

“On one occasion I was taken very ill and by using the Lifeline service I was able to get an ambulance and was taken to Exeter hospital. I have found the Lifeline staff and control centre very helpful and efficient.”

She also said that she would recommend the service as “it is good value for money and peace of mind”.

For further information visit Mid Devon District Council’s Lifeline alarms webpage at: www.middevon.gov.uk or, if you would like a MDDC Community Housing Support Officer to visit and demonstrate how the Lifeline equipment works, please call MDDC on 01884 234383.

Alan Quick