ActiveCare Inc. last week announced the availability of its new ActiveOne PAL (Personal Assistance Link) handset. The handset, also a cellular telephone, has one-button service where, when activated, a live operator greets each caller by name, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. ActiveCare services range from GPS location and fall detection, by the built-in accelerometer, to turn-by-turn directions and simple phone connections. The device can also receive daily activity and medication reminders
"For a small portion of the cost of in-home care or assisted living facilities, seniors using ActiveCare can receive similar practical services, allowing them to have the confidence to continue living in the homes they love, knowing that they can get help whenever and wherever they need it," said James Dalton, Chairman and CEO of ActiveCare.
Features of the ActiveCare CareCenter line of services include:
- One Button CareSpecialist – The ActiveCare CareCenter maintains general health records on all members and recognizes member special needs. Reminder or check-in calls can be scheduled to keep seniors on track with daily activities, meals or medicines while providing reassurance to caregivers.
- GPS location identification – The ActiveCare PAL handset’s built-in Global Positioning System knows member locations at all times. When connected to the CareCenter, users can get turn-by-turn directions, roadside assistance or location identification to provide for a loved one, caregiver or emergency services, if needed.
- Fall Detection – The ActiveCare PAL handset’s built-in accelerometer notifies the CareCenter when it detects a fall. An ActiveCare CareSpecialist communicates with the member to identify proper next steps, ranging from false alarms or minor stumbles to necessary emergency services.
- Phone Book and Call Transfer – The ActiveCare CareSpecialists keep member’s phone books on file for anytime access. A user simply pushes a button, is greeted by name and can be connected to their grandchild, doctor, friend or relative. Members can also be connected to their local pharmacy, transportation service, restaurant or any place of business or person they choose.
- GPS "virtual fence" – For memory-impaired members, caregivers can establish a virtual fence, ranging from a few blocks to a few miles, around a certain zone. Should the member go beyond the established zone, caregivers or contacts are alerted by a CareSpecialist for more information.
- Emergency Services – The CareSpecialists at the ActiveCare CareCenter are trained in the same manner as emergency 911 medical dispatchers and can stay on the line with callers while they wait for help to arrive. Additionally, with the on-file knowledge the CareCenter keeps on each member, CareSpecialists are easily able to provide medical history, conditions and/or medication information to emergency services, speeding care and reducing time.
