Care needs
Compare manual alarms, automatic fall detection, smartwatches and monitored response services.
Options
Suitability depends on the person, home, response network and willingness to use the equipment.
Fall detection
by Taking Care
A home-and-garden alarm with automatic fall detection and 24-hour monitoring.
Main limitation: No fall detector catches every event, and the wearable still has to be worn.
View the reality checkFall detection
by Apple
A smartwatch feature that can detect some hard falls and start an emergency call if the wearer is unresponsive.
Main limitation: It can miss falls, requires charging and may be unsuitable for someone unable to manage a smartwatch.
View the reality checkGPS and personal alarms
by Taking Care
A GPS personal alarm intended for use at home and while out.
Main limitation: GPS can be less accurate indoors and the unit must remain charged and carried.
View the reality checkFall detection
by Tunstall Healthcare
A wearable fall detector designed to connect into a Tunstall telecare system.
Main limitation: Requires the wider telecare system and consistent wearing.
View the reality checkGPS and personal alarms
by Tunstall Healthcare
A connected watch combining an alarm button, fall detection, location and geofencing.
Main limitation: It is still a wearable that must be charged and accepted by the user.
View the reality checkHome monitoring
by Tunstall Healthcare
A pressure sensor that can alert when someone leaves a bed or chair and does not return.
Main limitation: It indicates occupancy changes, not the reason for them.
View the reality checkCompanion robots
by Enabot
A mobile 4K home robot with two-way video, mapped patrols, adaptive recognition and manufacturer-listed fall alerts.
Main limitation: Its fall alerts are manufacturer-listed rather than independently validated as a medical fall-detection service, and the robot cannot provide physical help or a staffed emergency response.
View the reality check
