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If you are looking to protect your elderly parents or other family members, especially if they live alone, then you will want invest in a medical alert system.
Accidents happen. Each year, 3 million seniors (65 and older) are treated for fall-related injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Falling once doubles your chances of falling again,” noted the CDC, adding that only half of seniors who fall report it to their doctor.
Although some seniors may resist help, it’s worth pursuing to make sure they’re safe and get the attention they need in an emergency. It’s always best to treat potential broken bones, head injuries, or other serious injuries right away.
Do not wait. Start buying medical alert systems now to protect your loved ones today.
How to Choose a Medical Alert System for Seniors
Are you interested in buy a medical alert device, but you don’t know where to start? You’re not alone. Before you officially decide on a system, you need to understand a few things:
- Types of Medical Alert Devices
- Features To Look For
- Your specific needs
Types of Medical Alert Devices
Although each specific device is equipped differently, there are basically two types of systems to consider:
- Mobile systems: You are looking for a portable or portable device that can easily travel with you or your loved one. This includes products like smart watches, wearable GPS fall detection button, well-connected mobile GPS equipped with 4G, WiFi, GPS or more.
- Domestic systems: You want a home system with a smart voice-assist button that syncs with a designated collar or bracelet. You can also get a home device that connects to your landline (if you don’t have mobile connectivity) and also syncs with a necklace or bracelet. Both types of systems offer long-lasting battery life and up to 1,400 feet of protection.
Click here to shop around and easily see the pros and cons of each medical alert provider.
Features To Look For
There are many types of medical alerts to consider, such as smartwatch, mini medical alert button, mobile device, home device (no landline required) and more. Each device is different and comes equipped with different features, benefits, and add-ons. Here are some technical features you might want to look out for to improve your experience:
- Voice assistance: If you don’t want to rely on a manual, you will need a device with a voice assistant to answer your questions on the spot.
- Battery life: Find out how many hours your devices tend to last without needing to be recharged. If you lead an active lifestyle and aren’t home often, you’ll want long battery life (think days rather than hours).
- Home range: If you have a device at home, you’ll want to make sure your device can help you near and far.
- GPS location followed: Make sure your mobile device has GPS enabled so emergency crews can find you if you need immediate medical care or assistance.
- Waterproof: This is handy if you want to wear your device in the shower.
If you’re worried about falling or feeling unstable, make sure your gear includes fall arrest technology as well. This way, if you fall or injure yourself and are unable to move, the technician will detect that a fall has occurred and automatically call an emergency response team to assist you.
Still not sure exactly what you’re looking for? Then take Medical Guardian’s personal emergency response system provider’s online quiz to find out what the professionals recommend.
Your specific needs
Now that you have a basic understanding of your options, you can narrow them down to suit your needs. You can also get multiple devices if you want extra protection.
Here are some questions you will want to answer.
- You live alone? If you live alone, you’ll probably want to invest in a home system so you’re protected in case you need something when family, friends or neighbors aren’t visiting.
- Do you live an active life way of life? If you lead an active lifestyle, whether you engage in activities such as travelling, exercising, shopping or whatever, then you will definitely need a mobile system, so that you can get help wherever you are. you are (thanks to GPS!)
- Do you have any health problems or problems with mobility? If you have balance or walking issues or have existing medical conditions, you can opt for both systems for added protection inside and outside your home.
- Do you want to fall detection? Millions of older Americans (one in four, according to the CDC) fall every year, so if that’s a concern, you’ll want to look for a device with fall detection.
- How much would you like to spend? The cost of medical alert systems varied. At-home systems typically start at a minimum of $20 per month and on-the-go systems are slightly more expensive, typically costing around $5-20 more per month than at-home systems, according to the National Council on Aging (NCOA) . There are also a few free and discounted medical alert systems choose through government programs like Medicaid or through the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). All you have to do is check if your loved one is eligible. If you’re concerned about cost, be sure to shop around and choose only the device(s) you really need. And be on the lookout for installation, activation and equipment fees, which can drive up prices. Shop around now to compare prices and get a free quote.
How Medical Alerts Work
The process is simple. Most medical alert systems follow these three steps:
- Tap your medical alert help button: For immediate help, simply press your medical alert button to call for help.
- Get patched in 24/7 emergency monitoring system: A team of operators will be available 24 hours a day to answer calls and offer assistance.
- Get support: Operators will assess the situation when you press your medical alert help button. If you are unable to explain your situation, emergency medical services will be dispatched to your location. If your situation is not an emergency, the operators will contact your emergency contacts (family members, friends, etc.)
You have more questions ? Contact a medical alert professional for assistance.