Lifeline is Your Personal Declaration of Independence

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we hear, and our answers:

How will I benefit From The Lifeline® Personal Response Service?

Lifeline offers you and your loved ones peace of mind, independence, early intervention, and reassurance. Our goal is to give you the confidence to continue to live independently in your own home, doing things for yourself. We do this by ensuring that you know whenever you need help, it’s just a button push away.

My Independence is very important to me. Would I be giving that up by subscribing to Lifeline?

No. In fact, a recent clinical study provided that Lifeline users were 10 times less likely to need long-term care facility, like a nursing home, than people who didn’t use the Lifeline Service. Lifeline actually helps you preserve your independence by giving you the confidence to continue to live where you want to in your own home-enjoying a lifetime of memories. You’re always in complete control. Press your Personal Help button when you need assistance.

I’m Fine On My Own. Why Would I Want Lifeline?

Lifeline is like insurance. You may never need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad you have it. It’s reassuring to know that if you have a sudden illness of injury, help will be on the way in a matter of minutes even if you can’t move or speak.

I Already Have All The Help I Need. My Neighbor Checks In With Me Every Day.

Between your neighbors visits, you’re left unprotected. You could fall and be unable to get help for over 24 hours. A study published in the “New England Journal of Medicine” reported that People found within one hour of a fall are five times more likely to survive that those who remain helpless for over 72 hours.

How Much Does The Service Cost?

It’s surprisingly affordable. You don’t have to buy anything or make a long-term commitment. You pay a low, one-time installation charge and a low monthly fee for as long as you use the service and, the monthly fee is the same no matter how often you call, or how long you talk.

Who Are The Monitors Answering My Call?

The highly trained staff at the Philips Lifeline Monitoring Center will answer your calls and send for local help.

Is Lifeline Complicated To Use?

It’s simpler than using a telephone. All you have to do is press Your Personal Help Button. Our communicators have a highly sensitive speakerphone that lets the monitor speak to you, even if you can’t get to the phone.

What if I can’t speak?

If you press your Personal Help Button but cannot speak. All of your important information is displayed on a screen, so the type of help you need is quickly determined by our monitoring staff, they make sure you get it.

Is There A Lot Of Equipment Involved?

No. There are just 2 pieces of equipment: Your Personal Help Button wore as a pendant or on a wristband, and the communicator located in the home and connected to your telephone line.

Do I Have To Be In The Same Room As The Communicator For It To Work ?

No. You can be in another room, on a different floor, or even outside in your yard. A test range is made at the time of installation to make sure your signal will be received.

What if the help button gets wet in my shower?

Your Personal Help Button is completely waterproof (not just “water-resistant”) so you should wear it in the shower or bath, where many falls occur.

What Is The Next Step If I Decide To Subscribe?

It begins with your call to Jefferson County Health Center’s Lifeline office. Knowledgeable employees are waiting to discuss your special needs, and answer your questions about the Lifeline Service. They will ask questions regarding your health and obtain information that is specific to your needs. CALL 641-472-4111 and ask for the Lifeline Office.

The JCHC installer will also locate the best site for the communicator and install it. Our trained volunteer won’t leave until you have practiced using you Personal Help Button to call the Lifeline Response Center and you feel comfortable using the service.

Each month the JCHC Lifeline staff does a personal test call to your home. The subscriber the family or a concerned friend may call the Lifeline office and report any concerns.

When others can't be with you, Lifeline is...24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year.