As your parents age, it’s common to become concerned about them since they are more prone to accidents and illnesses. Events such as a fall are more of a threat for the elderly, leading to potential head injuries, broken bones, and psychological effects. According to the Government of Canada, 85% of seniors’ injury-related hospitalizations are caused by falls.
Perhaps you are worried about an elderly loved one and are unsure whether to move them to in-home care or monitor them at home. With a medical alert system, you can ensure safety and independence with the touch of a button. Keep reading as we consider why medical alert systems are a good investment and how they work.
What Is a Medical Alert System?
A medical alert system consists of a personal emergency response system or a fall button, integrating a device with state-of-the-art communication and a computer system. These systems are available in two types: in-home and mobile. They help seniors stay independent and overcome their fear of falls. It would be ideal for every at-risk senior to have an around-the-clock caregiver as they provide the best kind of support. However, that may not always be an option; either due to monetary constraints or simply an individual not wanting one. A medical alert system provides a layer of comfort for family members and most certainly one of security for the person who’s wearing it.
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When it comes to medical alerts, you need to determine if you’re looking for on-the-go protection (like wearable devices), at-home protection, or both. In this section, we’ll look at how these systems generally work, so you can make informed decisions related to the system you decide to install.
1. A Button Is Clicked for Help
All medical alert devices include a button you need to press to connect with a trained emergency operator. The best part is that you won’t have to worry about waiting for someone to find you because the connection goes through within a few seconds, just like calling 911. If you are experiencing an emergency, the first step is to press the medical alert help button.
2. A 24/7 Emergency Monitoring Center is Alerted
Once a fall is detected or you press the button, an emergency operator’s team is notified of the problem and will immediately offer assistance. You will get the help you require from an expert who has received intensive training on how to handle the situation.
3. Help Is On The Way
If you’re unresponsive or alert the operators that you need help, emergency medical services will be dispatched your way to ensure your safety. In a situation that doesn’t require an emergency response and you’re just looking for an extra helping hand, a trained operator will alert family members, friends, or neighbors to visit you with the kind of assistance you need quickly. This is truly a valuable service.
Medical Alert System Functions
Medical alert systems can provide the following:
- Connectivity: Medical alert systems have different connectivity options, such as cellular technology, landline, and VoIP.
- Equipment: In-home systems include a base station, and other systems come with a battery pack, a long-life battery, and cellular coverage.
- Monitoring Features: They have a call center, a base station, and a help button to respond to emergencies instantly, guaranteeing safety no matter your location.
- Customer Support: Many medical alert devices are backed by technical support professionals who cater to all your medical emergencies
- Additional Features: You can incorporate additional features into your device at an extra cost. Some features include a smartphone app, carbon monoxide detection, daily activity monitoring, fitness tracking, fall detection, GPS tracking, medical monitoring, personal directory assistance, and more. If you live in Canada and are looking for the best Life Assure alternative, you should consider Lifeline due to its excellent service and devices.
Benefits of a Medical Alert System
Here are five benefits to using a medical alert system:
1. Easy to Use
The best medical alert systems are easy to use, and that’s just how they should be. You shouldn’t need a STEM or engineering degree to navigate how to make one work. Taking advantage of plug-and-play technology saves time, especially if you purchase a stand-alone medical alert device. It’s important to note that setting up a medical system integrated into larger systems, such as home security systems, can be challenging.
2. Affordable
Many individuals overlook investing in a medical alert system because they assume it will be expensive. However, you can find various affordable options that offer consistent protection and monitoring for your loved ones without emptying your wallet.
Additionally, you don’t have to sign a long-term contract or pay any equipment fees if you don’t want to. Some systems don’t even require an activation fee, and if you compare costs with a nursing home, you’ll understand that they will save you a lot of money.
3. They’re Reliable
Hiring a caregiver or nurse and opting for human supervision is less reliable than medical alert systems because humans require breaks. At any time, your caretaker might have to eat, go to the bathroom, or even accidentally fall asleep. A medical alert system functions around the clock and is highly reliable. You should do your research and invest in a system that caters to your specific needs.
4. Improved Sleep
Most seniors experience insomnia symptoms due to chronic health conditions, such as arthritis. On the other hand, they might not also sleep well because they’re worried no one will know if something happens to them at night. A 24/7 medical alert system ensures that worried older folks sleep a little easier at night, reducing the probability of them suffering an accident caused by lack of sleep. They will also be more mentally alert if they sleep well.
5. Greater Independence
It’s no surprise that families decide to move elderly loved ones to assisted living facilities out of fear of getting harmed by an accident when they are home alone. Still, in most cases, seniors are reluctant to leave their homes, families, and possessions.
Medical alert systems enable the elderly to enjoy their home living situation while moving around and doing what they want. You also won’t have to worry about keeping a check on them at all times, fret over them when they’re out, or rush home to check up on them.
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When it comes to medical alert systems, don’t settle for the cheapest or highest price tag option. Let us help you do your research to compare pricing and features before you make a well-balanced decision that aligns with your needs. These systems are a convenient, affordable way to ensure any health emergency doesn’t go unreported. Both you and your elderly loved ones can secure peace of mind and sleep easily at night.
