Senior Alert Scheme
Have you heard of the Senior Alert Scheme? We think it could be useful for some members.
What is the Seniors Alert Scheme?
The Seniors Alert Scheme provides funding for a free personal monitored alarm for people aged 65 and older. The scheme is intended to support older people to continue to live securely in their homes with confidence, independence and peace of mind. It is funded by Pobal, a not-for-profit company that manages programmes on behalf of the Irish Government and the EU.
How does the alarm work?
Alarms can be worn as a pendant or around your wrist like a watch. The alarms connect wirelessly to a national helpline through a base unit installed in your home. When the alarm is activated, it automatically rings the helpline, which is open 24 hours a day all year round.
A helpline operator talks to you in your home and decides whether to alert a local volunteer responder or, if necessary, the emergency services. If you are unable to answer/respond they will contact a pre-chosen family member/neighbour or contact person for you.
Who is eligible to apply for an alarm?
To be eligible for the Seniors Alert Scheme, you must be aged 65 or over and have limited means or resources. You must also be living alone (for significant periods of time during the day)or caring for someone else in your household.
How can you get an alarm?
If you feel you may be eligible for the Seniors Alert Scheme, you should contact the group registered to operate the scheme in your area. Pobal publishes a list of registered organisations on its website. Click here to view the list. You can also contact Pobal at 01 511 7000 for details of your local group.
How much will it cost?
If you have a landline, you will get all the equipment, installation and the alarm monitoring service for free for the first year. After the first year, you will be asked to pay the annual monitoring fee. The annual monitoring fee will vary by service provider and the type of alarm or pendant supplied. Your local group can tell you about the cost in advance.
If there is no suitable landline available in your home and a mobile signal is used to connect to the equipment, you may have to pay a fee for mobile SIM rental.
How long does it take?
Once your application has been approved by Pobal it takes approximately 2 – 3 weeks for it to be installed. To find out more about the Senior Alert Scheme, there is a detailed overview on Citizens Information- click here. You can also visit the dedicated Pobal webpage here.