Physical disabilities
Key facts
In the UK there are:
- Approximately 11 million disabled adults
- Approximately 772,000 disabled children
- 2m people with a visual impairment
- 9m people with a hearing impairment
- 40% of people over the age of 65 with hearing loss
- 85% of people over the age of 65 with sight problems
Suggested care packages
Lifeline and pendant, fall detector, environmental control solution, DDA solution, sounder beacon, visual call beacon
Solution
People with physical disabilities or sensory impairments face a variety of challenges that are unique to each individual. These challenges may include loss of independence, fear of falling and the risk of social isolation. Telecare is one resource that can help support people and increase their independence by effectively managing the risks to their health and home environment. It can play a vital role in connecting people to the outside world, providing much needed peace of mind and reassurance, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Case study
Roger has Multiple Sclerosis, a disabling neurological condition that affects around 85,000 people in the UK. He lives alone and has lost all movement except in his left hand. As a result he was having difficulty carrying out everyday tasks such as operating the TV, getting in and out of bed and seeing who is at the front door.
Roger was given a Tunstall Intellec environmental control solution which he operates using a pillow switch. He can now make and receive phone calls, operate the television and radio, and answer the intercom.
Roger can now live more independently and his quality of life has been greatly improved.
“It’s been a God send. The system gives me a fantastic sense of security. I know if anything happens to me, I only have to press a button to have immediate contact with somebody who can send help to me and that is absolutely invaluable in my situation” he said.
View – Physical Disabilities and Sensory Impairments - solutions for independent living guide