I see advertisements showing women who’ve fallen and need help. However, a “necklace” may not be the only, or most certain way, to get it.
My husband has passed away, my children live out of state, I’m 84 and live alone. One evening I fell and heard the bones in my pelvis break. I couldn’t get up, the phone was beyond my reach, so I pushed the button on my “necklace” — it didn’t work; although I’d charged the battery, it failed. It was 7:30 p.m. My little dog sat beside me; we both knew I was in trouble.
A close friend living nearby calls every evening at 8 p.m. to see if I’m OK or just want to talk. I’d given her a key to come in, if necessary. I was helpless on the floor when she called at 8 p.m., then 8:15, and by 8:30 she knew something was wrong. It could have been hours or days before I was found but my friend came immediately. She did everything — ambulance, information in the ER, called my children and cared for my dog.
If possible, every older person living alone should have a trusted friend or relative to call at a certain time every evening. It could save a life. I’m sure it saved mine.
