Medical Alert Devices

Medical alert devices potentially offer considerable benefits and reassurance when a senior falls or is at risk of falling. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) revealed one incident where a woman received a call from the medical alert company operator as she made breakfast one morning. She had not heard her husband calling her from upstairs after a fall and pushed his emergency alert pendant. The woman rushed upstairs and discovered her husband bleeding profusely after hitting his head on the door frame of the bedroom door. This example highlights the considerable benefits of having a medical alert device.

Different Types of Devices

Leah Bellman, M.S, occupational therapist and stroke rehabilitation specialist stated in a Consumer Reports article that anyone at risk of experiencing a fall or experiencing another type of medical emergency might benefit from having a medical alert device. There are several types of medical alert devices, including the pendant style, and speakerphone medical alert systems. Other medical alert systems include cellular medical alert systems, phone/medical alert combination and the activity tracker. Making a decision on the ideal medical alert system depends on several factors, including the variety of features, service options and costs that make a particular system the right choice for your needs.

Phone Versus Mobile Medical Alert

One important fact to note is that many experts agree that simply relying on a Smartphone is not enough. Most seniors do not have their phone with them at all times, leaving open the possibility of falling and not having the phone with them. Decide whether you want a system that operates strictly with your landline telephone, or prefer mobile medical alert devices.

Features

The system you choose needs to have a fall detection or prevention feature, probably the most common reason that seniors choose a medical alert system. Make sure you choose a device that allows you to push a button to call for help, which connects you to either a live operator or emergency services such as police or medics. Global Positioning System (GPS) monitoring and location tracking is important for active seniors that drive or that enjoy walking or hiking and risk a fall. Check how waterproof a medical alert system is before purchasing the system as you want to be able to wear it in the shower or bathtub. Medical monitoring and activity monitoring are additional features that make a medical alert device an ideal option for seniors at risk of falling.

Cost of the Device

Costs of medical alert devices vary. Make sure the company you purchase a medical alert device from has no hidden fees, or complicated pricing plans. Never fall for an offer of purchasing used medical alert device equipment. Medical alert devices help seniors have more confidence, with many companies offering outstanding fall prevention and detection features, monitoring and excellent customer services.