Mum won’t open door to nurse / GP

[MyNavyPlayer]

Looking for some practical solutions please. Mum is suffering from memory issues and confusion likely related to cancer. A nurse went round today but mum would not open the door. I had already texted her in the morning and spoken to her to explain the nurse was coming. When the nurse was outside we were both calling her but she did not pick up. She typically does like to ignore anyone knocking at the door. (In the end I rescheduled the appointment for tomorrow as I will be at the house. I have a key.)

Does anyone have any practical solutions- I would be worried, if we installed a keybox, that it would be broken into.

Many people use a keybox with no issues. Is there a particular reason you are concerned that it will be broken into?

Keysafes are really the answer in this situation. HCPs are well used to using them and they really are secure.

When I used them entering someone's home you'd ring/knoxk and be calling out as you entered so people wouldn't be surprised. We'd have ID badges and be in uniform.

People still had to consent and if they wanted us to leave we would.

The only issue would come up if they locked the door from the inside but that is incredibly rare.

I suppose just because we live in London and there will always be someone willing to try it. I’m not sure how secure they really are …

She needs an advocate / chaperone in the house to answer the door with her possibly? Sorry I don’t know about key boxes.

I worked in the community for 20 years and honestly can't recall them ever being broken into successfully.

People trying to break in would just do the door lock or window I guess?

They should be put out of sight but not hidden.

Thank you, that’s helpful perspective!

We live in Zone 2 London in a road with very high footfall. Our keys age has been a god send. No problems

Key safe that should say !

With my mums one you have to know the correct four digit combination to get it open to get the key, and it's quite fiddly to spin the numbers round and lien them up even when you know it. And it's strong metal so you couldn't break it.

As others have said, anyone wanting to break in would probably find much quicker and easier ways to gain entry.

Just position it somewhere where it isn't too obvious and let those who need to know where it is and what the combination is.

My MIL had the same problem as your relative.
We instructed carers to knock the ring the bell. Wait one minute and use the key safe.

It's a safety issue as the relative might be lying on the floor unable to open it.

That's your justification for having one.

OP, my DDs live in London so we often stay in Airbnbs, and so far all of them have had a key safe, and no problems at all. I would totally recommend them - in your circumstances, I think it would be just what you’re looking for.

I got this one: Supra C500 Pro Key Safe | The Key Safe Company

It's more expensive but it is a 6 figure code so more secure there and the insurance company were happy with it.

Also the buttons are less fiddly than the little swivel barrel type.