2 minute read
Herts Careline helps local resident regain independence in her home
Although 45 year-old Ruth has multiple sclerosis, she is able to enjoy the benefits of living in her Letchworth home without worrying about what might happen were she to have a fall. This is thanks to the assistive technology package she has from Herts Careline – a provider of award winning alarms and telecare services.
Ruth has a Careline pendant and alarm unit and ensures she has the pendant on her at all times. She can even attach it to the handle bars of her mobility scooter. Conveniently, the pendant works inside her home as well as outside in her garden.
Whilst Ruth may not be the stereotypical Herts Careline customer, the service can be a real life saver to those with debilitating conditions such as MS, as well as for children who have epilepsy – specialist monitoring equipment alerts parents to the onset of a seizure.
We had a chat with Ruth to find out how Herts Careline has helped changed her life.
What was life like before you had your Herts Careline pendant? “As my Multiple Sclerosis deteriorated and I began to have more falls, I was finding I had to telephone the ambulance service more often. I also had to make sure I had my mobile phone on me at all times, so that I could call either the ambulance service or a friend to help me up. My social worker recommended a Herts Careline pendant which has given me my independence back. I don’t feel like I’m a burden - I can just press my pendant any time and someone is there to help - it gives me security.”
How did you hear about the service? “I was referred by a Hertfordshire County Council social worker.”
Could you tell us about an instance where you have used it? “I was having a shower sitting on my chair and when I came to move I misjudged the gap and slipped. I immediately pressed the pendant and was connected with an operator who had a lovely manner, was patient and waited on the line until help arrived. To be quite honest I don’t know what I’d do without a pendant, it’s a life saver!”
What is the biggest difference our technology has made to your life? “It’s given me back my independence. Knowing I don’t need to call anybody else except press my pendant gives me peace of mind. I don’t have to worry that I’m being a bother anymore. It’s great to have the service available 24 hours a day. I try to do everything I can, I have a positive outlook and the help I receive lets me live independently with just a little help.”
What would you say to people with friends and family, of all ages, who might benefit from having assistive technology in their home? “If you need it, have it! It’s there to help you and make life easier. All the equipment and gadgets I have, help me live as close to a normal life as I can. It gives me peace of mind, security and reassurance. Life is short, you have to make the most of it!”
For more information on Herts Careline, call: 0300 999 2 999 (option 1) or email: carelinesupport@north-herts.gov.uk
