Creating a Safer Environment for Families - Cair

2​0 August 2025

Background

In a family home, Jack* lives with his mum, who experiences light-induced epilepsy, meaning that certain visual stimuli, such as flashing lights, can trigger seizures. Jack is also hard of hearing and plays a vital role as a young carer, helping to support his mum day and night. This unique situation presented a dual challenge: ensuring that both Jack and his mum could be safely and reliably alerted in the event of a smoke alarm activation, while also giving Jack a way to be notified when his mum needed help, particularly at night, without relying on visual alerts that could put her at risk.

Solution

To create a safe, person-centred solution, a Cair Vibe unit was installed and connected to a smoke alarm and an Onyx personal pendant. The Vibe is a sensory alert device designed to deliver vibratory, visual and audible alarms, making it ideal for individuals with hearing loss. In this case, the Vibe was set to use only its vibration and sound features, excluding any visual signals, to ensure that alerts could be delivered safely without triggering a seizure.

The device was placed in Jack’s bedroom, allowing him to be alerted through vibration and sound, even during the night. This meant that not only would he be aware if a smoke alarm was triggered, but he would also be notified if his mum used the pendant to call for help. The system was designed to be simple and effective, supporting Jack’s responsibilities as a young carer while keeping his mum safe from light-based stimuli.

By integrating the smoke alarm and pendant with the Vibe and a Telecare alarm connected to a monitoring centre, the setup offers a seamless connection between local alerts and responsive support, while remaining sensitive to the specific needs of both individuals in the home.

Outcome

Since the system was introduced, it has provided reliable and accessible support for the family. Jack is now confidently able to respond to emergency alerts and assist his mum when needed, despite his hearing loss. His mum, in turn, can call for help safely and discreetly, without exposure to flashing lights. The solution has delivered peace of mind for both, supporting their independence and wellbeing through thoughtful, tailored technology that doesn’t overwhelm or complicate daily life.

*​Not their real name