Many of us have old or otherwise infirm friends and family, who may live alone.
I've come across a great device called the 3rings plug.
This nifty device plugs in between an appliance (say a kettle) and the wall. You then tell the website when you expect the device to be used (say between 7 and 10am). If it is used, then you get a message saying they are OK, or if not that they may need help. The unit uses mobile phone technology so there is no need for the internet.
Sometimes simplest is best!