Exploring Older Adults' Perceptions of the Utility and Ease of Use of Personal Emergency Response Systems

The aim of this exploratory-descriptive study was to explore and describe perceptions of the utility and ease of use of personal emergency response systems (PERS) among older adults who are aging in place. This study explored the question of "What is the meaning of a PERS use for a functionally-impaired older adult?" Using an exploratory-descriptive qualitative design, 14 subjects were recruited in Queens, NY, who met the study's eligibility through the selection criteria. A 9-question in-person interview guide was used to conduct the face-to-face, audio-taped, semi-structured interviews in an effort to gather information on the participants' experiences with using a PERS. Data were collected over a 2-month period. While many participants admitted that they did not wear the PERS neck pendant or wrist device consistently, they still reported benefiting from having the button and participating in the program. Findings were consistent with the existing literature about compliance with PERS, that is wearing and using the device. Findings from this study suggested that PERS use is a reassuring presence, is simple and effortless, if you need it, and alone, but connected. The overarching theme is PERS is an adjunctive resource that it is a helpful backup and that promotes interconnectedness.