Living Room

• being alerted when the person I support gets up from their chair

A chair occupancy sensor is a small thin mat that can go on a chair or a wheelchair which links to either a pager that someone in the same house or building has, or a remote monitoring centre so that the person can get help if needed, without having to remember to call for it themself. It can usually be set up to suit the person who is using it, so can be used differently depending on the abilities and usual routine of the person who is using it. Some of the ways it can be used are:

• to send an alert straight away when someone gets out of their chair
• to send an alert if someone leaves their chair but doesn't return within a set period of time
• linked to a bed occupancy sensor so if the person goes to their bed instead of the chair, it doesn't send an alert to the monitoring centre 

You can find and buy these and similar products by searching 'chair occupancy sensor' on the internet. They can also be purchased in shops that sell equipment for people with disabilities. Some lifeline providers will also provide them as an add on item to a lifeline. 

• Increased Independence: It can reduce the need for supervision, so help is only given when needed. 
• Links to an alert system: Can be linked to a pager to alert someone in the same location if the person gets up from the chair. Can be linked to a monitoring centre through a lifeline.
• Falls Detection: Can be used to detect falls or other reasons a person may need help by alerting if the person has not returned to their chair within a preset time. This can be adjusted to suit the individual and how long they are usually away from the chair for. 
• Increased safety: If someone has difficulty walking on their own or is at risk of falls, an alert can be set to be sent when the person has left their chair, which can ensure the person has help when needed and give reassurance to those caring for them. Some models can be linked to lights and turn these on when the person gets up. 

• Suitability: Who will respond when the person gets up? Are they near enough to give help quickly enough. 
• Sensitivity: Check the sensor is sensitive enough to detect when someone is sitting down, without giving false alarms. Check reviews to see if it has a good reputation for accuracy. 
• Compatibility: Check if the sensor works with the current furniture and any other telecare devices used. Make sure there is a telecare base unit installed and this is compatible if it is being connected to a monitoring centre.
• Installation and maintenance: Ensure it is set up properly to make sure the sensor works. Think about who is best to install it. How often do batteries need to be replaced and who will do this?
• Durability: Think about how sturdy it is and whether it can withstand regular use. Does it need to be waterproof due to risk of spills or continence issues.  
• Cost and value for money: Think about the initial cost and any ongoing maintenance or monitoring costs. Does the company offer a warranty or support? Check reviews from other people who have used it.