Families, carers and aged care providers across the Hawkesbury are being urged to prepare for Australia's first nationwide test of the new AusAlert emergency warning system, with advocates warning the loud alarm could be distressing for people living with dementia.
At approximately 2.00pm (AEST) on Monday, 27 July, compatible mobile phones, tablets and some smartwatches across Australia will simultaneously receive a test emergency alert.
Devices will emit a loud siren-like alarm lasting around 10 seconds, vibrate and display a message confirming the alert is only a test.
While the test is designed to ensure Australia's new emergency warning system is working correctly, dementia advocates say the unexpected alarm could cause significant distress for some older Australians.
Blacktown Dementia Action Group member Tracey Fernley-Pearson has encouraged carers, family members and visitors to think ahead before visiting aged care facilities or supporting someone living with dementia at home.
"The sudden loud alarm may be confusing, frightening, distressing or startling for someone living with dementia," she said.
"A calm explanation and reassurance can make a significant difference."
She said a little preparation beforehand could help reduce unnecessary anxiety.
Visitors to residential aged care homes are also encouraged to let staff know about the scheduled alert, particularly if they are supporting someone who may be sensitive to unexpected loud noises.
Practical steps to reduce distress
Hawkesbury Dementia Care advocate Peter Gooley has also suggested several practical ways carers may be able to minimise the impact of the alert, including:
- placing compatible mobile phones into Aeroplane Mode before 2pm (remembering to switch them back on afterwards);
- using ear protection where appropriate and acceptable to the person;
- playing familiar music through a device that is not connected to the mobile network; and
- remaining with the person during the alert to provide reassurance.
He also reminds carers that their own phone will receive the alert, so they may also wish to place their own device into Aeroplane Mode if appropriate.
Why the test matters
AusAlert is Australia's new national emergency warning system designed to rapidly notify people during life-threatening emergencies such as bushfires, floods, cyclones and other disasters.
The national test allows emergency agencies to confirm the technology is operating correctly before it is needed during a real emergency.
For communities such as the Hawkesbury, which has experienced devastating bushfires and floods in recent years, emergency alerts are an important public safety tool. However, advocates say the community should also be mindful of those who may find unexpected alarms frightening or confusing.
Families, neighbours, carers and aged care staff are encouraged to share information about the scheduled test so vulnerable members of the community can be prepared.
For more information about the national AusAlert test, including frequently asked questions and community resources, visit:
- Aged Care Guide: https://www.agedcareguide.com.au/talking-aged-care/ausalert-is-coming-to-your-phone-heres-what-you-need-to-know
- AusAlert: https://www.ausalert.gov.au/community-resources
- Information about managing alerts: https://www.ausalert.gov.au/receiving-alert/turning-alerts-off
