Roger - I think the concept would sell here. My mother and two aunts are in their eighties, live alone and are trusting as you noted. However, I'm the guy that would buy your product for their increased safety(and would probably have to install it as well!)

The elderly may be set in their ways, but their adult children can help them take precautions. So, I'd run targeted tests on baby boomers and other adult children from 35 - 55.

You'd have to test loudness, tone of voice, etc., but eventually a successful model will evolve for the US market - may be the same as in the UK or a little different by region.

As for distribution, you could place the item in various catalogues, run press releases and look for distributors like the Safety Store chain in malls across the US. You also might be able to JV with alarm system installers, making your product a bonus or loss leader for their major alarm systems. If the product comes in self-contained kits, you might sell them on eBay and other auction/online store sites.

Hope the above ideas help - email me if you want to discuss further.

Good luck,

Bob