Philips Lifeline introduces response app to connect seniors with access to help in the event of an emergency

ANDOVER, Mass., Aug. 26, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) introduces the Philips Lifeline response app, the company's latest innovation designed to empower seniors to live independently while aging well. Offering a direct connection to the company's leading U.S.-based call center, the mobile app gives seniors 24-hour access to emergency assistance. In a recent survey by Philips and the Global Social Enterprise Initiative (GSEI) at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business, 96 percent of senior respondents said it is important to be as independent as possible as they get older. The Philips Lifeline response app for Android and iOS smartphones enables them to take peace of mind with them when they are on the go.

"Today's seniors are active and they deserve a mobile solution that affords them the freedom to go and do as they please while being safe," said Kimberly O'Loughlin, General Manager for Philips Lifeline. "We're excited to offer seniors an app that allows them to take our trusted service with them and experience life to the fullest, without the worry of getting help should they need it."

How it works

The Philips Lifeline response app is a discreet, affordable option for smartphone-enabled seniors and their families. With the simple touch of a button, users can speak directly to trained professionals at the call center that powers the company's leading medical alert service. Whether it is to call a nearby loved one or neighbor for a hand, a call center representative will answer the phone live and alert the right person designated for the situation, always following up that help has arrived. Using location functionalities built into the smartphone devices, the app can help locate users to ensure that help is directed to the right location. Built for independent, active seniors, the app allows users to receive the benefits of the call center without having to wear a medical alert device. The app is free to download; there are no set up fees or long-term contracts required; and users may choose to pay month-to-month for the service.

Joining the company's comprehensive portfolio of innovative solutions, such as Lifeline with AutoAlert fall detection technology and the HomeSafe Wireless System, the Philips Lifeline response app is a next-generation solution providing peace of mind for families and seniors as they age. The app is available for download in the U.S. through the Apple Store and Android Market, and the monthly service is provided through Philips Lifeline.

Philips Lifeline, the nation's first medical alert service, is celebrating 40 years of delivering meaningful innovations. The company has served more than seven million people since its inception, leading the industry with products and services focused on senior safety, health and connectedness. For more information on Philips Lifeline and the new app, please visit http://www.lifelinesys.com/content/lifeline-products/response-app and join the conversation on Facebook.

To learn how Philips is improving the quality of healthcare through innovative solutions, inspired by human insights across the most meaningful moments of care, visit www.philips.com/healthcare.

About Royal Philips

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a diversified health and well-being company, focused on improving people's lives through meaningful innovation in the areas of Healthcare, Consumer Lifestyle and Lighting. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Philips posted 2013 sales of EUR 23.3 billion and employs approximately 112,000 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. The company is a leader in cardiac care, acute care and home healthcare, energy efficient lighting solutions and new lighting applications, as well as male shaving and grooming and oral healthcare. News from Philips is located at www.philips.com/newscenter.

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SOURCE Royal Philips