Abstract: The present invention provides a personal emergency response system having a home communicator with fully integrated capabilities to provide messages and reminders on a timed basis for the well being, safety and comfort of the subscriber as well as providing the emergency response capabilities of present systems. The invention may be embodied in a small tabletop device which can include a speakerphone and other telephone functions and which is plugged into the telephone line at the subscriber's home or other facility. The unit includes microprocessor-based circuitry including an internal clock and data storage for containing control and message information. Data storage can be via a digital storage chip such as an EPROM. The invention serves as an interactive attendant for the subscriber by which the subscriber can have an increased sense of security in the ability to summon help in the event of an emergency, and in being provided with timely reminders in the course of daily activities.

Abstract: A system and method for adjusting telephonic control signals transmitted from a central station to a remote station. The signals are automatically adjusted according to the response of the remote station. The signals are adjusted to control speakerphone operation at the remote station in such a way as to provide communication with minimum audible annoyance. The method is especially useful in a personal emergency response system in which the speakerphone is part of a subscriber station to achieve a greater voice range than a voice activated speakerphone system.

Abstract: A system and method for adjusting telephonic control signals transmitted from a central station to a remote station. The signals are automatically adjusted according to the response of the remote station. The signals are adjusted to control speakerphone operation at the remote station in such a way as to provide communication with minimum audible annoyance. The method is especially useful in a personal emergency response system in which the speakerphone is part of a subscriber station to achieve a greater voice range than a voice activated speakerphone system.

Abstract: A personal emergency response system (PERS) is disclosed which includes a method and apparatus for monitoring alarm signals to provide improved emergency response capabilities and enhanced system operability. The system includes a local response center for relaying alarm signals received from subscribers to mobile on-site field personnel via individual paging units. The system is also capable of retransmitting an alarm signal in the event that a response to the original alarm signal has not been registered within a predetermined period of time. The system is also provided with redundant communications paths to minimize the possibility of a missed alarm message from a subscriber, and self-test capabilities for detecting system faults and transmitting fault messages to the individual paging units of the system.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to test the internal functioning and operational limitations of a personal emergency response (PER) system. In the normal mode of operation of a PER system, a coded or uncoded activating signal transmitted by a portable help button activates elements of a subscriber unit in a subscriber station remote from a central station to transmit an alarm message to the central station. A subscriber unit according to the present invention includes a momentary action button, which when activated, places the subscriber unit in a test mode. While in the test mode, the subscriber unit will not transmit alarm messages to the external central station in response to a valid activating signal. The subscriber unit will, however, activate an annunciator to inform the subscriber of proper functioning of the portable help button in combination with certain elements of the subscriber unit.