Politics & Government

'Are You OK' Program Rescues Elderly Woman

Woman was enrolled in Norfolk County Sheriff Michael G. Bellotti's safety program for seniors.

A 100-year-old woman who fell in her home received emergency medical assistance as a result of being enrolled in Norfolk County Sheriff Michael G. Bellotti’s “Are You OK?” safety program for senior citizens.

When the elderly woman did not respond to her daily phone call from the sheriff’s office, a program officer placed a second call to her home. This time, the woman answered the phone and said she had fallen to the floor and was unable to get up. At that point, the officer informed her to remain stationary and immediately contacted the local police to summon emergency help.

The elderly woman was transported by ambulance to a hospital where she was evaluated for a couple days and then released from doctor’s care and safely returned to her Braintree home in good health, according to the program officer.

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“Once again, this lifesaving program proves itself to be effective in protecting senior citizens living alone,” said Sheriff Bellotti. “Not only does the enrollee experience relief knowing emergency assistance is just a phone call away, but their families can have peace of mind as well.”

The free-of-charge program, collaboratively run by Sheriff Bellotti and Fallon Ambulance Service, has provided protection for more than 1,700 elderly citizens with a simple phone call each day to check on their well-being. Participants of the program receive a phone call every day, 365 days a year. “Are You OK?” officers can summon emergency help if a participant fails to answer the phone or otherwise indicates they are not OK. The program is available to all Norfolk County residents.

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Anyone wishing to sign up for “Are You OK?” or learn more about the program may call 866-900-RUOK (7865). Informational videos about the program can be found on Facebook by searching Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office “Are You OK?” Program for Senior Citizens.



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