How to Set Up a Support Network for a Loved One Living Alone

Keeping a loved one safe when they live alone takes more than just buying a personal alarm. It’s about creating a network of care that protects their safety, lifts their spirits, and helps them enjoy life. Below are practical tips to help you design a support network.

Why support networks matter

Many people over 75 live alone. Age UK statistics show that over two million people in England in this age group live alone and more than a million say they go over a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member – a truly heartbreaking reality.

Social isolation can lead to loneliness, depression and physical decline. A well‑rounded support network tackles these risks by combining technology, human contact and community engagement (NHS)

Personal alarms and assistive technology

Why personal alarms matter – Protect Alert’s digital solution

When a loved one wants to remain independent, a reliable personal alarm becomes more than a gadget – it becomes a lifeline. Protect Alert’s digital alarm is designed to provide that lifeline across the UK, without the limitations of older analogue systems.

What sets our device apart is the reassurance it offers. Every alarm call is handled by our UK‑based response team, who answer 95 % of calls within ten seconds, so help is on its way almost immediately. The alarm constantly monitors for hard falls and will raise the alarm automatically even if the wearer can’t press the button. Because it uses a built‑in SIM rather than relying on Wi‑Fi or a landline, it works wherever there is mobile coverage, giving around 99 % national coverage

You can wear it however suits you – as a pendant, on your wrist, or on a clip and it’s waterproof, so it even works in the shower or out in the rain.

It arrives fully configured with your emergency contacts and our monitoring service, ready to use straight out of the box – there’s no technical setup required. A long‑life battery provides up to seven days of power and alerts you when it needs recharging

In an emergency, you can speak directly to our response team through the alarm’s built‑in microphone and speaker You can also add up to five trusted contacts who will be notified if the alarm is activated, and your family can view your real‑time location via a secure online platform These features work together to give you and your loved ones peace of mind every day.

Key safes and home security

A key safe lets trusted people and emergency services access the house if your loved one cannot get to the door. The NHS explains that a key safe is a small box fixed to an outdoor wall that holds a spare key behind a code. A simple addition like this can save precious minutes in an emergency.

Setting up regular check‑ins

Technology alone cannot combat loneliness. Plan a regular pattern of calls or visits with family, neighbours and friends.

Family and friends schedule

Agree on a timetable of calls or visits among family members, neighbours and friends. A combination of brief daily calls and more in-depth weekly chats works well. It can help to set a recurring alarm on your phone so you never forget.

Telephone befriending services

If family live far away or time is limited, volunteer befriending schemes can fill the gap. Age UK runs two free telephone friendship services. In the Regular Telephone Friendship Service, individuals over 50 are paired with a friendly volunteer for a weekly conversation. 

Many older people say these calls are the highlight of their week. The Silver Line Helpline provides confidential support 24 hours a day; anyone over 55 can call 0800 470 8090 for friendship and advice.

Local community resources and social activities

Encourage your loved one to try different activities. Community groups not only provide company but also give older people a sense of purpose and routine.

Taking part in local activities is a great way for your loved one to make friends, stay active and feel part of their community. Options can include day centres, lunch clubs, hobby and craft groups, exercise classes, and walking clubs.

Check with local councils, community centres, libraries, and local charities for up-to-date information on what’s available nearby. Even one regular activity can bring a sense of purpose and something to look forward to each week.

Final thoughts

A support network is a gift of independence. By combining reliable personal alarms, regular human contact, and involvement in community activities, you can help your loved one live alone safely and happily. Take small steps: choose the right equipment, schedule calls, and explore local groups. With thoughtful planning, living alone doesn’t mean living without support.

With the right plans in place, living alone can still mean living well – safe, connected and confident. If you would like advice on personal alarms or telecare, visit Protect Alert at protectalert.co.uk. We’re here to help your family stay safe and connected.