PERS is a program sponsored by the Tompkins County Office for the Aging to protect the health and safety of our residents. PERS can take some of the worries out of living alone...

WHAT IS PERS?

• PERS is a communications system which links an individual with the County’s emergency response system even if that person is unable to use the telephone.
• The PERS system operates via an electric transmitter which automatically dials a highly-trained emergency rescue dispatcher who will send appropriate help to the home where the signal originated.
• The PERS system provides around-the-clock protection for persons who are ill, frail, alone or medically at risk.

• A call is activated by pressing a button on a small console unit or on a pendant usually worn around the neck.
• The PERS unit is powered through an electrical outlet and has an internal backup battery in case of power failure.
• The console is connected to the telephone line. In an emergency, it dials a special number and transmits a coded message.
• The system will activate itself if its "check in" mechanism is not reset every 24 hours. This mechanism assures that help will be summoned should the person be unable to activate the device him/herself. (Note: newer PERS machines do not have the "check-in" mechanism).
• Operators are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week to receive and respond to emergency calls.

• The PERS unit must be connected both to a private phone line having a modular jack and to an electrical outlet.

• The Tompkins County Office for the Aging has a limited number of units available for rental on a sliding scale from zero up to $31.25 per month.
• Call the Tompkins County Office for the Aging at (607) 274-5482. An outreach worker will make a home visit to demonstrate the system and to determine how and where the equipment should be installed.

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