TAP does not provide life assurance or medical assistance. The phone lines are not manned by nurses, home health aides or doctors, but are instead manned by volunteers. Seniors may refer themselves to this program or they may be referred by family members, home caregivers, home health aides, social workers or any other service provider.
TAP hires volunteers who are interviewed, screened and then trained to place phone calls. These volunteers call their client list at an agreed time each day or night. Volunteers are trained to let the phone ring at least 15 times. If they don't receive an answer, they must call back in 15 minutes and let the phone ring another 15 times. If there is no answer after the second call, the volunteers must then call a designated emergency contact. If the volunteer cannot reach the emergency contact, he or she must then call 911.
In the event of an appointment or vacation, it is important the senior, caregiver or family member contact the TAP provider and let them know the senior will be away from the phone. TAP works well as a senior telephone assurance program for those seniors who:
- Can hear the phone ring
- Are mobile enough to answer the phone
- Are capable of carrying on a conversation
To find out if there is a TAP program near you or to sign up for TAP, contact your local senior center or Department of Family Resources.