How to Talk to Your Parents About Getting a Personal Alarm
Share
Falls are one of the biggest health risks facing older adults in the UK. According to the Office for National Statistics, over 11 million people in England and Wales are aged 65 and over, and that number is growing.
One in three people over 65 and half of the over 80s will fall at least once a year. These falls can lead to broken bones, long hospital stays, and a permanent loss of independence.
As a family member, you want to keep your parents safe. But bringing up the idea of a personal alarm can be difficult. Many older people see it as a sign of “giving up” — when in reality, it’s a way of staying independent for longer.
This guide will help you have that conversation correctly, at the right time, and with the right facts.
Why Do Older People Need Personal Alarms?
Personal alarms are small, wearable devices that let the user call for help in an emergency. Some models, like the Protect Alert fall alarm, include automatic fall detection — meaning they’ll call for help even if the user is unconscious or unable to press a button.
Over 3.3 million people aged 65+ live alone in England and Wales, with older women more likely to live alone than men.
Half of the people over 80 fall at least once a year, and falls are responsible for over 4 million hospital bed days annually.
According to the NHS, falls are one of the leading causes of emergency hospital admissions for older adults.
Personal alarms are especially important for:
- Elderly people living alone
- Those with balance or mobility issues
- People with long-term conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or dementia
- Anyone who’s had a fall or close call
- Families who want peace of mind
- How to Talk to Your Parents About Getting a Personal Alarm
Bringing up a sensitive topic like this takes empathy and timing. Here’s how to approach it.
1. Choose the Right Time and Setting
Avoid starting the conversation during a stressful moment or after a fall. A calm, relaxed time is best — maybe over a cup of tea, during a walk, or after a check-up.
2. Frame It as a Way to Stay Independent
Reassure them that this is about keeping their freedom, not taking it away. A personal alarm means they can continue living at home safely, without needing constant supervision.
"This isn't about control — it's about making sure you're never left alone in an emergency."
3. Share Real Stats That Show the Risk
Use real-world facts to explain the risk:
- Over 8,500 older people fall every day in the UK
- One in ten over-80s who fall become too afraid to leave their home (Centre for Ageing Better)
- A “long lie” (being left on the floor after a fall) can lead to dehydration, pneumonia or death (NICE Guidelines)
4. Make It Personal
Let them know you’re doing this out of care, not worry.
“It would give me peace of mind knowing that even if I’m not nearby, you’d always be able to get help.”
What to Say If They’re Hesitant
It’s completely normal for older adults to be unsure about using a personal alarm. Here’s how you can respond to some common concerns they might raise:
“I don’t need it.”
You might respond with:
“That’s great — and we want to keep it that way. This isn’t for today’s problems, it’s just a safety net in case something unexpected happens.”
“It makes me feel old.”
Try saying:
“It’s not about age — plenty of people use alarms while recovering from surgery or living on their own. It’s about being prepared, not about being old.”
“I’ll forget to wear it.”
Reassure them:
“That’s okay — many alarms are waterproof and light enough to wear all day, even in the shower. Once it becomes a habit, you won’t even notice it’s there.”
Common Questions Your Parents Might Ask
Are they difficult to use?
Not at all. Most are worn around the wrist or neck and activate with one press. Fall alarms are fully automatic.
Do I have to wear it 24/7?
It’s recommended — especially in high-risk places like the bathroom or garden — but many are lightweight and discreet.
What if I press it by mistake?
The response team will simply check in. False alarms are part of the service and nothing to worry about.
When Is the Right Time to Have the Conversation?
- After a fall or near-miss
- When your parents’ mobility or balance changes
- If they start living alone or show signs of memory issues
- When they seem more anxious or isolated
The earlier you have the conversation, the more likely they are to accept it with confidence.
Why Choose Protect Alert?
At Protect Alert, we design alarms that are simple, discreet, and come with fall detection as standard.
What you get:
✅ Automatic fall detection
✅ 24/7 UK-based response team
✅ Works anywhere in the UK — no Wi-Fi or landline required
✅ GPS tracking so we can locate them fast
✅ Waterproof design — ideal for use in the shower
✅ No long-term contracts — monthly and annual plans available
👉 View all alarms at Protect Alert
Additional Statistics to Help the Conversation
- Loneliness affects over 3.6 million older people in the UK — and it's as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
- Falls cost the NHS an estimated £2.3 billion a year.
- Falls account for over 250,000 hospital admissions in people aged 65+ annually.
- Including facts like these can help reframe the conversation from emotional to practical, which many older adults prefer.
Final Thoughts: It’s a Simple Step That Could Save a Life
You don’t need to wait for a crisis to act. A personal alarm is a small investment that protects your parents’ health, your peace of mind, and their independence.
Start the conversation today. Be gentle, be honest, and back it up with facts. When they’re ready, we’ll be here to help.
📞 Questions? Call us on 0800 048 4575
📧 Or email contactprotectalert.co.uk