By Rebecca Barnes, PA MEDI Coordinator
Beaver County Office on Aging
Question: What is a PERS?
Answer: A Personal Emergency Response System lets you call for help in an emergency by pushing a button 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A console box is set up with your telephone service and an emergency response center to monitor the calls. The personal help button should always be worn around your neck or as a wristband. There is two-way communication with trained operators.
Question: Who can benefit from this service?
Answer: It is appropriate for older adults who are at risk of falling. It can also be beneficial for people who may need help quickly due to heart conditions, stroke, diabetes and more.
Question: Can I receive this service on my cell phone network or do I need a landline telephone?
Answer: Service can be set up with either your landline service or cell service.
Question: If I push the button, will an ambulance be sent out automatically?
Answer: If you are able to talk with the trained operator, they may be able to contact your assigned emergency contacts (a family member or friend) to check on you first. If the operator cannot reach your emergency contacts, they will dispatch emergency help, whether it be an ambulance, or the police or fire department.
Question: What if I push the button and cannot communicate with the operator?
Answer: If you cannot communicate with the operator, your emergency contacts will be called. If the emergency contacts cannot be reached, emergency help will be dispatched.
Question: What happens if the button is activated by accident?
Answer: Sometimes, a person will bump the button and activate a call. Just tell the operator what happened.
Question: Can the button be used outside the home?
Answer: Yes, some companies have GPS availability.
Question: Why can’t I just use my cell phone to summon for help?
Answer: In an emergency, you may not be able to dial a phone number, tell the dispatcher who or where you are, and what your medical condition is at the moment. When pressing the PERS button, the trained operator already knows who you are and your location. The company has a medical profile for you and can send for help.
Question: How is the equipment installed?
Answer: Many companies have in-home service technicians to install equipment and show you how to use it.
Question: Does the Beaver County Office on Aging provide funding for this service?
Answer: The Beaver County Office has some funding for this service for adults ages 60 and older. An in-home needs assessment must be completed by one of our Options care managers. To make a referral, contact the Information and Referral Unit at (724) 847-2262 or (888) 548-2262.
Question: Can I arrange to privately pay for PERS service without using Office on Aging funding?
Answer: Yes, you can pay for the service on your own. The Beaver County Office on Aging has a list of PERS providers that you can request by calling our Information and Referral Unit at (724) 847-2262 or (888) 548-2262.