Jane tells us about her experience of a simple to use device called the Kraydel Konnect to help her be more connected with friends and family
About me
I am 83 years old, originally from Ireland, I have 4 sons and sadly lost my husband almost 40 years ago.
My immediate family live locally to me but I have extended family in other parts of the UK, Ireland and Australia.
I have always been active and worked well into my 70’s, only retiring after a hip operation.
A few years ago, I experienced a fall, sustaining facial and head injuries. In 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic when restricted in seeing people I had another couple of falls at home.
During this time, I lost confidence and my interaction with other people reduced significantly.
Staying Well Service
I was visited by the Staying Well Service, which is a specialist team providing preventative services to individuals over 55 with mild to moderate frailty who live in their own homes across South Staffordshire.
As part of the service I had a community nurse and occupational therapist come and visit me.
After the assessment I was advised to continue to take readings on certain aspects of my health and to send these through to my GP.
What technology did for me
The Kraydel Konnect was plugged into my TV which then allowed me to make and receive calls to people I chose.
Only the people who I had asked to be able to contact me could call, so I was confident that I wouldn’t be called by people I didn’t know.
I was able to choose friends and family, as well as key people involved in supporting me at home.
This has meant I have been able to see and speak to those who live locally and far away.
When someone rang, I could answer using a simple remote and they would appear on my TV.
It was also easy for me to make calls to people.
Until the COVID-19 pandemic hit, my sister had been planning her annual visit to the UK from Australia. These plans of course had to be postponed.
Although speaking on the phone, I hadn’t seen my sister for two years. By using the Kraydel Konnect I have now been able to see and speak to her, and have been able to raise a glass for her birthday and show off my new purple streaked hair.
Staying Well Service Contact Details
Phone numbers, fax and email
Address
Staying Well Service,
Merlin House, Etchell Road,
Tamworth,
B78 3HF