Global Courant
The proportion of the elderly in the total population in the US is a significant 12.9%, according to figures from the Administration of Aging. In addition, the rate is expected to rise to 19% by the year 2030. The best way to take care of this segment of the population is to stay connected to them while helping them stay safe and independent. The advancement of technology has led to the development of several unique communication systems that allow the elderly to contact their loved ones at any time. One of them is walkie-talkies.
Today, more and more elderly people prefer to spend their retirement days in the luxury and safety of their own homes rather than in retirement homes or retirement homes. This is possible by refurbishing their existing houses with the latest communication systems that make it easier to communicate with the outside world, along with other facilities specially designed for the elderly or disabled. Two-way radios have become a very popular communication product that allows the elderly to stay in touch with their caregivers and loved ones, whether they are spending time working in the yard, relaxing in the living room or playing golf, two-way radios provide security and peace of mind. Walkie-talkies are also equipped with special functions that can be useful for these tasks.
Need for two-way radios for the elderly
As a person ages, their physical health deteriorates and many of their vital organs can no longer function optimally. Poor eyesight, weak muscles and the inability to move quickly are some common problems that can hinder an older person’s daily activities and free movement. This makes them susceptible to accidents and illnesses that require timely attention. Speed becomes a matter of life and death. Although an informal caregiver can devote his/her full attention to caring for the elderly, the elderly do not want to lose their independence. The best way to care for the elderly while remaining independent is to use an effective two-way communication system such as radios. This ensures that both parties can contact each other at any time. A caregiver can even go out for their routine tasks without worrying about the older person if they know there is an effective two-way communication system between them.
How to use and buy two-way radios for the elderly
A carer’s time is usually spent tending to the basic needs of the elderly and this task can be simplified by using walkie-talkies as an effective communication channel. With the simple touch of a button, you can communicate with your loved ones while doing other household chores. One might ask: why not use mobile phones? A major advantage of two-way radios over mobile phones is that they do not rely on a mobile network and communication is instantaneous.
Based on the concept of radio frequencies always being in the air, the walkie-talkies work almost everywhere. This means that the elderly can take them with them wherever they go, with the certainty that they can reach anyone in an emergency or even when they want to pass on a simple message. Older people often want to engage in all kinds of activities, such as gardening, walking, visiting the library or simply pursuing their hobby. The presence of a walkie-talkie will encourage them to freely engage in these activities without worrying about how to contact their caregiver in times of need. Fast communication is very important in accidents and accidents.
Two-way radios have a built-in transmitter, antenna and speaker. These radios can be supplied with an internal rechargeable battery that can be charged by plugging it into a wall outlet or with standard replaceable batteries that can be easily purchased from the market. You can choose which one is more convenient for you. These radios use two types of frequencies:
- Family Radio Service- In this case, transmission is possible up to two miles. Also, no license is required and the usage costs are very low.
- General Mobile Radio Service – Such two-way radios are designed for long distance communication. However, you must get a license to use this service.
Benefits of two-way radios for the elderly
Some advantages of walkie-talkies are:
- These radios are very sturdy and will continue to work even if dropped, exposed to rain, dust or sand and operating in extreme temperatures.
- They are very easy to use and only require the press of a button to talk.
- The portable models can be easily attached to your belt or other accessories, leaving your hands free for other work.
- They can be used anywhere, so you can always carry the device with you.
- They are not expensive. You can communicate at a very low cost without relying on mobile phone services. You do not pay any monthly charges, no roaming costs and you do not have to choose from different subscriptions.
- Some two-way radios also give you regular weather alerts and warn you of potentially dangerous weather.
- You can choose from different designs and models, such as handheld devices or wireless base station intercoms.
- Thanks to the two-way function of these radios, the caregivers can regularly check the well-being of the elderly. This is very useful as the elderly who often have hearing problems may not be able to hear your voice from the other room.
- These radios also have built-in features such as an LED flashlight and an LCD screen.
- You can use them for both short and long distance communication, depending on the type of model you choose.
- Some models can easily be submerged in water for about half an hour without any damage, allowing the elderly to wear these radios while swimming or bathing.
- These walkie-talkies are even ideal for use by the physically disabled.
In addition to use in households, walkie-talkie systems are also very useful in nursing homes. Here too, the focus is on timely attention for the elderly and this can be done through instant communication.
There are a variety of two way radio models available on the market and many of them offer several unique features. When choosing a two-way radio system, study the different functions and their usefulness for the care of the elderly. You should choose one that can be easily carried and operated by the elderly in your home. Before purchasing a system, check the Ingress Protection or IP rating. The IP rating indicates the resistance of the two-way radio to foreign objects and moisture. Look for a radio that is easy to hold and carry and has buttons that are clearly visible. These two-way radios are available with different price tags that range from less than $50 to hundreds of dollars.
After purchasing the system, you need to take certain precautions to ensure it works effectively – ·
- First check that the antenna is firmly attached and working.
- Always make sure the batteries are fully charged. This ensures that communication is clear. ·
- Test the signal quality from time to time to make sure the radio is working properly. The signals must be loud and clear for effective communication. This is all the more important as older people may not be able to talk loudly.
- Always end your messages with ‘about’ when the last message has been sent. This is an indication to the listener that your message is complete and they can get on with their work. ·
- The elderly learn how to use the two-way radio system for communication.
Caring for the elderly can be a strain on the caregiver, both mentally and physically, but can be simplified through the use of two-way radio communication systems.
Use of two-way radios in the care of the elderly
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