Connecting the Unconnected - Bridging the Generation App
Simple technology connects the unconnected ageing parents to their internet enabled families
With many of us depending on our smart phones to check everything from our travel arrangements, and finances to exercise performance and latest fashion choices, it seems natural that we should check in on loved ones with the latest app.
But the inspiration behind 3rings.co.uk comes from the days before mobile phones, where the well-known ‘code’ to let someone know all is well was giving them three rings on the telephone. The new service brings this code back for the internet generation.
The initial design for 3rings used an array of sensors within the home to build patterns of ‘normality’ so that anything unusual would be flagged and families alerted. But for the older audience, introducing new technology within the home was deemed a barrier to entry so it was decided to go back to the basic concept of the three rings code, which worked purely with a traditional telephone.
Elderly parents or grandparents only require a landline to receive or make a daily call to the 3rings automated service which then automatically contacts an entire network of family and friends using an app, SMS, email or calls.
Founder Steve Purdham was inspired by his mum, Iris, 82. He explains: “We wanted to create a simple solution which answered the question, ‘are my parents okay today?’. Despite there now being more forms of communication available than ever before, the older generation are often excluded from the latest technologies. This led us to remember a time when giving someone three rings via the telephone was used to provide peace of mind.
“The objective is to help loved ones maintain their independence and not feel like a burden. 3rings isn’t meant to be a replacement for personal calls and visits but helps ease the worry caused by distance and hectic lives. We strongly believe that this offering can be a catalyst for the changing family care of ageing parents in the UK.”
The service is available online at 3rings.co.uk with free apps for iPhones and iPads and Android. There are two paid-for services (£5.99/month and £9.99/month) and a free trial available.
For more information please contact steve@3rings.co.uk or call Steve on 07899-803555 or 0161 731 0081
