Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: TUESDAY, August 16, 1994                   TAG: 9408160068
SECTION: EXTRA                    PAGE: 3   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: David Butler
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

FOR THOSE ON THEIR OWN, THESE SYSTEMS KEEP WATCH

A: Personal emergency response systems (PERS) address the need for security and independence for a growing number of senior citizens. The typical PERS consists of a small wireless pendant and a tabletop response console with automatic dialer. The pendant is usually worn around the neck so it will always be within reach.

PERS fall into two broad categories: monitored and unmonitored. With a monitored system, the user enters into a contract with a professional response center to receive emergency calls and notify the appropriate responder (often a friend or relative). The center maintains a file with a prioritized list of designated responders, street directions and medical information.

In case of an emergency, the console automatically dials the response center and transmits a digital ID code. If the system supports two-way voice, the attendant will attempt to query the caller through a speaker in the console. Otherwise, the attendant will dial the residence. Once the nature of the emergency is known (or if there's no response), the attendant will summon help.

Most PERS equipment manufacturers operate national response centers and are set up to contract directly with end users. Some also distribute their systems through local response centers such as hospitals. The monthly fee (typically $35-$50) covers both equipment rental and monitoring services. Options include inactivity timers and sensors, remote two-way voice speakers and fire/smoke detectors.

Some manufacturers give you the option to purchase their system outright. Although prices and terms vary considerably, this can knock 50 percent or more off the monthly cost. However, make sure the console can be reprogrammed to call another response center in case the manufacturer goes out of business. Prices range from $250 to $400.

You may be able to avoid monthly fees altogether by purchasing an unmonitored PERS. This type of system relies on a recorded message rather than a digital ID code. Unmonitored consoles can be programmed to dial as many as five phone numbers in sequence until someone answers.

If your local emergency response agency accept calls from an automatic voice dialer (many don't), an unmonitored PERS can actually improve response time over one that's monitored. Otherwise, you should carefully prioritize your list of responders (friends, relatives and neighbors) so that the system can quickly reach someone in case of an emergency.

A well-designed unmonitored PERS should be equipped to detect an answering machine or busy signal so that it can quickly move on to the next number. This can save precious seconds in an emergency. Furthermore, it should require the responder to acknowledge the call (usually by dialing 9). Two-way voice can also be helpful. However, depending on the location and severity of the victim's condition, voice communication may not be possible.

Whether you opt for a monitored or unmonitored PERS, make sure the console includes a backup battery. It should also have a cancel switch in case the pendant is activated by mistake. Some systems even come with waterproof pendants that can be worn in the shower. Finally, don't rely solely on manufacturer-supplied range specifications. If possible, arrange a trial so that you can make sure the pendant works from every corner of your home.

To receive a list of companies that manufacture monitored and unmonitored personal emergency response systems, please send $1.50 and a self-addressed envelope to David Butler F-422, Department (TWN), 14713 Pleasant Hill Road, Charlotte, N.C. 28278-7927. The list includes toll-free phone numbers for more than a dozen manufacturers along with a description of each system.