The Impact of Changing Landlines on Your Personal Alarm System | What you Need to Know
As the UK moves from analogue to digital phone lines, many older adults’ personal alarm systems may stop working — especially during power cuts. Families and care providers should check whether alarms are compatible with the new system and consider upgrading to mobile-based devices to ensure ongoing safety.
Why you need to check people’s personal alarm systems
As the UK undergoes the digital phone switchover, many older adults’ personal alarms may stop working leaving many older adults who rely on personal alarm systems at risk. These alarms, often used to call for help in emergencies such as falls or sudden illness, typically depend on a working landline connection.
How the Digital Phone Switchover Affects Personal Alarm Systems
Traditional personal alarm systems are designed to send an alert through an analogue phone line. When a home moves to a digital service, the alarm system may no longer function as expected.
In simple terms, analogue landlines use physical wires and can continue to work during power cuts.
However, digital phone services rely on the internet and electricity, so they may stop working if the power or internet goes down. This means the alarm may not be able to connect to the emergency centre. Additionally, if the personal alarm is particularly old it may not be compatible or work with newer technology.
What has been the impact?
In 2024, two telecare users reportedly died after personal alarm failures, following the digital switch‑over of their landline systems. These tragic cases led the government to pause non‑voluntary migrations and negotiate stronger safeguards for vulnerable users. This has led to calls for greater care and communication during the digital switchover, particularly for those in vulnerable groups such as older adults living independently or in supported settings.
What families and care providers can do
Care homes and family members can take steps to ensure personal alarms will continue to work during and after the switchover. These include: Checking whether a resident uses a personal alarm that connects through a landline Asking the phone provider whether the alarm will still work after the switchover Ensuring the alarm is tested when the phone service is changed Asking for a backup battery for the digital phone box in case of a power cut It may also be a good time to consider upgrading to a newer type of alarm that does not rely on a landline at all. Some modern alarms use mobile networks and will continue to work even if the broadband or power goes down.
Benefits of newer personal alarms
Many of the new alarms designed for older users come with features that make them safer and more reliable. These may include:
Built-in mobile signal so they do not rely on a home phone line
GPS tracking so help can find someone even if they are outside the home
Internal batteries so the alarm works during power cuts
What this means for care providers
For care homes and care service providers, this is an important time to share guidance and offer reassurance to residents and their families. By helping people understand the changes and plan ahead, you can show your service is up to date and cares deeply about their resident’s safety. If you have any further questions about this topic or would like advice about what to do please contact one of our experts who will be happy to help.
As the Company Director at Wiserr, I lead an innovative and impactful platform that provides information and advice on care and health services in local areas. We empower informed decisions and enhance the quality of life for thousands of users, and we are featured in over 3000 GP practices across the UK.
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