Technology (aids) to help you in your home
There are many types of technology and equipment available to help you remain living safely, comfortably, and independently in your home. These can range from activity monitors and medication reminders, to personal alarms and much more.
This type of support is known as technology enabled care (TEC), which is also known as assistive technology or telecare.
Why have TEC in your home?
TEC can help you to:
- live at home safely, securely, and independently for longer
- manage your care in a way that is right for you
- allow early intervention to avoid deterioration in your health and improve your quality of life
- reduce the risk of unplanned hospital entry through falls or accidents
- reduce or delay your need for long-term residential care
- provide support and reassurance to you, your family, friends, and carers
How does TEC work?
TEC works through the installation of a range of different sensors in your home via a control box to a monitoring centre that is there to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Sensors can be set up and programmed in a wide variety of ways. For example, if a person was at risk of falling when getting out of bed a sensor could be installed to alert a responder if this happened. If a person was forgetful then the system could remind them to take medication or check whether doors had been left open or taps left running.
These are just a few examples. TEC is developing all the time and new products are becoming available to help people live more safely and independently.
Changes to the Telecare service
In Central Bedfordshire, TEC is provided by us through our partnership with Livity Life (formerly Millbrook Healthcare), normally after a care assessment has been carried out by our staff.
This service replaced our Telecare service previously offered by Grand Union Housing Group. If you were previously supported with this Telecare service, you will continue to receive support from Livity Life. If you have a problem with existing equipment (whether it was installed by Grand Union or Livity Life) or you no longer need it, you can contact Livity Life. Nationally there have been reports of scam calls in relation to Telecare Services. Please be assured that Livity Life will never contact you asking for your bank details.
Telephone: 0300 790 0128 (opening hours are Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm)
Email: centralbedfordshiretec@livitylife.co.uk
How to request TEC
If you would like to discuss an assessment for TEC and/or care and support needs, please speak with your current health or social care professional or contact our customer services centre on 0300 300 8303. We will then arrange for one of our social care practitioners to complete an assessment. Alternativity, you can complete the following self assessment form.
How much does the TEC service cost?
The cost is £7.40 per week (unless you meet the eligibility criteria for care and support or have a disability and can claim exemption from VAT, in which case it is £6.30 per week). There is no cost for assessment, equipment or installation. If you have other care services, the cost of TEC can be considered when we assess your contribution.
How to buy TEC privately
If you would prefer to organise TEC yourself, without approaching us, or would only like to order a pendant/lifeline alarm, aside from considering the commercial offerings available through the internet, you could consider the following options:
Miguardian can offer services directly by calling 0800 130 0011 (opening hours are Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm). Please note, at the time of writing, the weekly cost for a personal alarm is £5 per week plus VAT and bundle packages are also available to purchase.
The Lifeline alarm system is available mainly in the south of Central Bedfordshire and is able to provide assistive technology that can alert someone in the case of an emergency. A similar service, Life24 is available to people mainly in the North of Central Bedfordshire.