The ratio of seniors to the total population in the US is a whopping 12.9%, according to figures from the Administration on Aging. Additionally, the percentage is expected to increase to 19% by the year 2030. The best way to care for this sector of the population is to stay connected with them while helping them stay safe and independent. The advancement of technology has led to the development of several unique communication systems that allow seniors to communicate with their loved ones at any time. One of them is two way radios.

These days, more and more seniors prefer to spend their retirement days in the luxury and safety of their own homes rather than nursing homes or nursing homes. This is possible by renovating their existing homes to include the latest communication systems that make it easy to communicate with the outside world, along with other amenities designed specifically for the elderly or infirm. Two-way radios have become a very popular communication product allowing seniors to stay in touch with their caregivers and loved ones, whether they are working in the garden, relaxing in the living room or playing golf, two-way radios provide security and peace of mind. Two-way radios are also equipped with special features that can be useful for these tasks.

Need for Two Way Radios for Seniors

As a person ages, their physical health deteriorates and many of their vital organs may not function at full capacity. Poor eyesight, weak muscles, and the inability to move quickly are some of the common problems that can make daily activities and free movement difficult for an older person. This makes them prone to accidents and illnesses that require timely care. Speed ​​becomes a matter of life and death. While a caregiver can give their full attention to caring for the elderly, the elderly may not want to lose their independence. The best way to care for the elderly and allow them independence is through the use of an effective two-way communication system, such as radios. This ensures that both parties can communicate with each other any time they want. A caregiver can even go out to perform routine tasks without worrying about the older person if he knows that there is an effective two-way communication system between them.

Using and Buying Two-Way Radios for Seniors

A caregiver’s time is generally spent taking care of the basic needs of the elderly and this task can be simplified by using two-way radios as an effective channel of communication. A simple push of a button allows you to communicate with loved ones while doing other household tasks. One might ask: why not use mobile phones? One of the main advantages that two-way radios offer over mobile phones is that they do not have to rely on any mobile network and communications are instantaneous.

Based on the concept of radio frequencies always present in the air, two-way radios work almost anywhere. This means that seniors can take them wherever they go, safe in the knowledge that they can contact anyone in times of emergency or even just want to pass on a simple message. Older people often want to participate in a variety of activities, such as gardening, taking walks, visiting the library, or simply pursuing hobbies. The presence of a two-way radio will encourage them to do these activities freely without worrying about how to contact their caregiver in times of need. Quick communication is very important in case of mishaps and accidents.

Two-way radios have a built-in transmitter, antenna, and speaker. These radios can come with an internal rechargeable battery that can be charged by plugging into electrical outlets, or with standard replaceable batteries that can be easily purchased on the market. You can choose the one that suits you best. These radios use two types of frequencies:

• Family Radio Service- In this case the transmission is possible up to two miles. Also, no license is required and usage costs are very low.
• General Mobile Radio Service – These two-way radios are designed for long-range communications. However, you need to obtain a license to use this service.

Benefits of Two Way Radios for Seniors

Some of the benefits of two-way radios are:

• These radios are very durable and continue to function even if they are dropped, subjected to the effects of rain, dust or sand, and operate in extreme temperatures.
• They are very easy to use and only require pressing a button to speak.
• Handheld models can be easily clipped to your belt or other accessories, leaving your hands free to do other work.
• They can be used anywhere so you can keep your device with you at all times.
• They are not expensive. You can communicate at a very low cost without depending on any type of cell phone services. You don’t have to pay any monthly charges, no roaming charges, or choose from multiple monthly plans.
• Some two-way radios also give you regular alerts about weather conditions and warn you of potential hazardous weather conditions.
• You can choose from a variety of designs and models, such as handheld devices or wireless base station intercoms.
• The two-way feature of these radios allows caregivers to regularly check on the well-being of the elderly. This is very useful as older people who are often hard of hearing may not be able to hear your voice from the other room.
• These radios also have built-in features like an LED flashlight and an LCD screen.
• You can use them for short and long distance communications depending on the type of model you choose.
• Some models can be easily submerged in water for about half an hour without any damage, allowing the elderly to wear these radios while swimming or bathing.
• These two way radios are ideal even for people with physical disabilities.

Aside from home use, two-way radio systems are also very useful in nursing homes. Here again the focus is on providing timely care to the elderly and this is possible through instant communication.

A variety of two-way radio models are available on the market, and many of them offer several unique features. When choosing a two-way radio system, the various functions and their usefulness for elderly care are considered. You should choose one, that the seniors in your household can easily carry and operate. Before you buy a system, check its ingress protection or IP rating. The IP rating signifies 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 clearly visible buttons. These two way radios are available with assorted price tags ranging from less than $50 to hundreds of dollars.

Once you have purchased the system, you must take certain precautions to ensure that it works effectively – ·

• You must first verify that the antenna is firmly connected and operational.
• Always make sure the batteries are fully charged. This will ensure that communications are clear. ·
• Test the signal quality from time to time to make sure your two-way radio is working properly. Signs must be loud and clear for effective communication. This is even more important since older people may not be able to speak out loud.
• Always end your messages with ‘envelope’, when the final message is sent. This is an indication to the listener that your message is complete and they can get on with their work. ·
• Educate the elderly on how to use the two-way radio system for communication.

Caring for the elderly can be a taxi for the caregiver, both mentally and physically, but can be made simpler with the use of two-way radio communication systems.