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Comparing with Companion...
Is a Companion Watch the best device to support independence?
The world is awash with Smart fitness devices which have multiple sensors including heart rate, blood pressure, and other activity sensors, however it is important you are clear on what you need the device to help support be that reassurance, safety or well being.
This article is focused on looking for devices and services that provide long distance monitoring of people to support them to live independently at home. This group of devices are coined Care technology, also known as Telecare.
The good news is, with the latest advances in technology, people now have more choice over historical Telecare offerings, and includes products that can be grouped into a new category called Personal Alarms (which includes Companion Watch).
The challenge with more choice is more product groups including Telehealth which focus on helping people to manage short and long-term health conditions - which this article does not include.
Telecare devices come in a range of form factors, from traditional pendant wearables to SmartWatches and bracelets.
Key factors to consider when choosing a Telecare device includes:
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Does it function in the house and out in the community
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How does the device communicate: does it work independent of other devices or does it need a mobile phone or home hub/landline phone to work
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How easy is it to setup?
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Is the Device and services personalised to you?
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What reassurance can the device provide?
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What safety support can the device provide?
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What wellbeing support can the device provide?
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How do you get alerted to an emergency?
Lets see how Companion compares with other Telecare devices available in the UK including its nearest rival, the Apple Watch SE
Feature | Companion | Apple | Pendant | bracelet | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dedicated Apple and Android Apps | |||||
GPS tracking (history and live) | |||||
Emergency alert triage management | |||||
Support network connected | |||||
Emergency voice telephone calls | |||||
Home and Safe Zone (geofence) monitoring and alerts | |||||
No movement (inactivity) alerts | |||||
Falls detection | |||||
Dedicated emergency SOS button | |||||
Secure sharing data with your GP | |||||
Respiratory rate, variability and trending analysis | |||||
Heart rate, variability and trending analysis | |||||
On screen activity goal | |||||
Showerproof (IP67 compliant) | |||||
UK business | |||||
Made in Europe | |||||
Simple and fast charging | |||||
Up to 168 hours between charges | |||||
Large clear 46mm analog face | |||||
Works without wifi, bluetooth or mobile phone connectivity | |||||
Works straight out the box: No setup required. |
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