New local scheme could see free personal alarms for the elderly
By Aura McMenamin
Elderly people in the local area could feel a lot safer thanks to a new scheme launched by TD Katherine Zappone.
The Senior Alert Scheme hopes to link up with local community groups to provide free personal alarms to older people.
Children and Youth Affairs Minister said the scheme could make ‘a real difference’ in areas like Tallaght, Rathfarnham, Templeogue and Citywest where, according to Ms Zappone, there is a strong community spirit.
She said: “Feeling safe and secure in your home is a basic right.”
According to the scheme, the alarm would be worn as a personal pendent or watch.
When pressed, the alarm connects wirelessly to a base unit, which informs a 24 hour monitoring centre that something is wrong.
The scheme is open to all people aged over 65 years-of-age with limited means or resources who live within the local area of a registered community group.
Ms Zappone said a small monitoring fee may apply for the service.
Community groups interested in applying for the scheme or older people or their family members who want to see a list of registered community groups can go can do so HERE.
