Alternative call alarms for paralysed blind man

[Social work assistant]

Is there any alternative equipment that can act as a call alarm or buzzer? I visit a gentleman who is blind and partially paralysed from the neck down, with a small amount of sensation in his left arm and hand. He currently resides in a nursing home, and is not able to grip his call alarm button. He has asked me to investigate the possibility of a sensor mat that he could drop his hand onto which would send a signal to the nurses room through the usual call alarm junction box, or similar.
I have drawn a blank from the usual channels, and was wondering if anyone knew of any companies that offer these type of alternative aids.

[JustKev]

I may be able to help, but would need to know a little more.

Kev

[DLF Team]

There are alternative aids such as sensor mats available – most often used on the floor, bed or chairs. However, they are usually configured to have a timed delay and activate an alarm when the pressure is released from the mat, for example when the user steps off the mat. Perhaps it may be reconfigured by an telecare engineer.
There are also a range of switches with some only requiring very light touch with a larger target area. Switches can often connect to an alarm system via switch interfaces. You can view a list of switches, interfaces and sensors here
There is also the other option of REMAP, which is a charity whose volunteers make custom made equipment if there aren’t other options available. Visit www.remap.org.uk
Hope this helps
DLF Team

[JustKev]

Had something like that in mind, was thinking that i could modify an existing sensor/switch to achieve what is required, or if that is not possible may be able to make something from scratch.

Kev

[kafouser]

What about a blow (air pressure) switch. It would be very easy to fabricate for a simple switch operation. RS do a pneumatic actuated switch that could easily do the job. Code is 319-798 and costs £7-50.