Older farmers need personal alarms

In the wake of a wave of rural crime, older farmers in Clare have been asked to consider applying to their local community group for a personal alarm under the Seniors Alert Scheme.

ICSA rural development chairman, Billy Gray said, “Subsidised monitored personal alarms are available to all those aged 65 or over who meet the criteria of the scheme and have a landline telephone.

“Community groups have been issued with grants to cover the costs of purchasing and installing the alarms, and the recipient only has to pay the yearly monitoring fee.”

“These alarms provide great security for older people or older couples living alone, as the alarm is monitored twenty-four hours a day and if you have any concern for your own safety, whether it’s an intruder or an accident, all you have to do is press the button and there’s someone at the end of the line to help.”

Those who want more information  can contact the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government website, your local GP, public representatives, gardaí or clergy.