3rings Plugs in to reassuring families

[grow_thumb image=”https://telecareaware.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/3rings-plug-default.jpg” thumb_width=”150″ /] Stoke-on-Trent’s 3rings, which we noted over a year ago [TTA 6 Feb 14] as a smartphone/call/text-based family alert system based on the older person’s phone check in, has developed a plug that will do this check in automatically. It’s based on behavior–an older person turning on or off an appliance as part of their daily routine (a tea kettle or TV), based on rules that the family sets up. The plug goes into the wall outlet with the appliance plugged into it. Usage sends a wireless signal to the 3rings portal and notifies family or neighbors that the person is active and moving about. Presumably this is a small appliance–there’s no tech spec that gives maximum wattage. (The plug may short out if Dad likes to get up to ‘Ride of the Valkyries’ on his McIntosh amplifiers driving two Klipschorn floor speakers.) A subscription service at £12 per month, with the plug at laddered prices of £79 inclusive of the first month, £183 with a 12 month subscription with the plug at half price plug and £288 with a two year subscription. Interestingly this Editor received this news as a LinkedIn update by CEO Steve Purdham whose mum, Iris, has featured prominently in the advertising from the start. (It appears from their website that the 2014 version has gone away.) UK only. YouTube video

Editor’s Note: Everything old is new again! It’s nice to see the original Glascock and Kutzig observation lives–the chimney smoke across the Irish valley that indicated that all was well with Uncle. Their behavioral research and patents were the foundation of early telecare companies, most directly Living Independently Group’s QuietCare (now Care Innovations). It’s still Activity=Safety and family reassurance.