Looking into care for my Dad. Does anyone have any experience with telecare/telehealth systems?

[Loustere]

I am looking into care for my Dad. Keeping him at home (a bungalow) is of upmost importance to my sisters and I. He suffers from diabetes and had a minor stroke 18 months ago, still alert and with it, but unsteady on his feet and needs a frame to walk. We are fortunate enough to have all 3 daughters in reasonable proximity so we can see him once a week each at least. We know he will need carers in the morning and evening for dressing and getting in and out of bed, but ideally we would like to keep him at home and comfortable. Has anybody got any experience with telecare/telehealth, it is getting a lot of press at them moment and I know his local health authority use it.
Does it work?

[NettoSuperstar]

I have it all connected, though not had to use it.
I'd recommend it for peace of mind, yes, though I can't comment on the service when used in an emergency yet.

[LauraM35]

Ah - sorry to hear that Netto. Are you back using it now? Would you recommend it?

Thanks - L

[NettoSuperstar]

I have telecare, as I'm brittle asthmatic.
I've never used it (well I tried but it wasn't connected properly-entirely my fault).
They did come out and fix it immediately I asked though.
I have the box, and a watch with a button on, which I wear when I'm bad.
DD knows how to use it too, but luckily she's also old enough to call am ambulance, which is what she did the other week when Telecare wasn't working.

[LauraM35]

Hi there,

Just the thread I've been looking for! My father has been diagnosed with COPD and I'm looking into telehealth for him.

All the information I've found on-line is really positive. The government and David Cameron are backing it & trials have shown a 45% reduction in mortality rates in those who've used the system. Unbelievable! More importantly it seems to give people back their quality of life.

LisaCN - I gave Tunstall a call & they were very helpful. But what I'm really after is to make contact with someone who's actually using this system... Anyone out there?

Laurax

[lisacn]

hi there I work for the nhs dealing with elderly people in the community and trying to help them stay independent in their own homes, I have to say the telecare companies I have dealt with are great and offer a wonderful service, you could try your local council for info.
All my patients who have a telecare service are pleased with them and it also gives them and their family a bit of peace of mind, you just have to make sure they wear the pendents. If I can help in any way just let me know

[superspouse]

My mum has developed Alzheimer's and my dad is caring for her, but needs some extra support, so I have been looking into telehealth as well and the costs involved.

[sarah2312]

Thanks, Loustere for the youtube links. I'll take a look at those. My Dad suffered a heart attack (not major, but enough to worry about) last year and I am concerned about him being left at home alone. He's very independent and likes living by himself, and as I don't live all that close to him, it would be helpful to see if telehealth is a suitable half-way solution.

[carocaro]

Thanks, will have a look at them.

[Loustere]

hi carocaro,
ive been doing some research on the web and found these channels on youtube
www.youtube.com/user/TelecareUK
www.youtube.com/user/TelehealthUK
they explain about the products.

lou

[carocaro]

Can I crash this thread as I was going to post the same? For my Mum and Step Dad, he has MS and Mum cares fiull time. Thanks