Veterans Home Care (VHC) has announced the launch of VetAssist Companion, an Echo Alexa device specially preprogrammed with new voice technology for seniors to reduce isolation and loneliness and replace push-button medical alert systems.
The launch has been stepped up to meet the needs of seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic, the company said in a news release.
Designed for VetAssist clients, the Companion can provide care 24 hours a day, seven days per week, when care givers or loved ones are unavailable. It gives VetAssist clients, senior veterans and their spouses, increased independence and peace of mind.
Unlike other devices, its special programming enables the senior to make and receive voice activated phone calls and offers vocal emergency response by simply asking Alexa for help instead of pushing a button.
It also promotes engagement with unlimited on-demand information and voice-activated entertainment featuring music, jokes, riddles and stories.
“The VetAssist Companion is a great complement for home care providers, social workers, and case managers to add to their offerings. It is very simple and easy to use. No programming or Internet carrier is needed. Just plug it in and it is ready to go,” said Bonnie Laiderman, founder and CEO.
“The Companion combats the isolation and loneliness so many seniors face every day.” Carrie Merrifield, Companion Program Director, said. “After a short trial period, one of our clients even called this her new ‘roommate.’ ”
The news release said the device is fast and reliable with a typical emergency response time of just 8 to 15 seconds. It eliminates the need for pendants and wristbands.
A military grade security network makes it private and secured, and it will not accept robo type calls Affordability is another benefit as costs may be covered by the individual’s Aid and Attendance benefit from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
After the Companion service is rolled out to current VetAssist clients from coast-to-coast, the next wave of the product launch will be to all seniors, the company said.
For more information: call (817) 877-1620 or visit https://veteranshomecare.com/companion