Emergency Home Response Service

Emergency Home Response Service (EHRS) is a 24-hour emergency communication link to assistance outside the home for older adults with documented health and safety needs and mobility limitations. This service is provided by a two-way voice communication system consisting of a base unit and an activation device worn by the client that will automatically link the older adult to a professionally staffed support center.

EHRS is Community Care Program core service provided to improve the independence and safety of clients in their own homes and help reduce the need for nursing home care.

EHRS offers 24-hours-a-day help at the touch of a button, installation at no cost to the client, free adaptive activation devices, and a list of first responders chosen by the client. To receive this service, an older adult must qualify for the Community Care Program.

Contact

For more information on Emergency Home Response Services in your community,

• download the EHRS brochure (333 KB);
• download the list (57 KB) of agencies that have been certified by the Illinois Department on Aging as authorized providers for the Emergency Home Response Service for the Community Care Program;
• contact the local Area Agency on Aging; or
• contact the Department on Aging Senior HelpLine.

How to be an EHRS provider

An Emergency Home Response Service provider must:

• be certified by the Illinois Department on Aging,
• provide a base unit and necessary activation equipment,
• deliver, install and provide training to the older adult,
• provide live monitoring for appropriate response that includes an interpreter line and teletypewriter communication and
• provide 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week coverage.