Benefits of Medical Alert Systems

As we age, our bodies become more prone to injuries. This makes medical emergencies even more likely for seniors who may not be as equipped to handle them if they happen. That’s where medical alert systems come in. The service provides seniors with 24/7 access to emergency services, no matter where they are in the United States. In addition, medical alert systems provide older adults with a personal emergency contact so family and loved ones can be alerted quickly in case of an emergency.

If you or your loved one are prone to falls or have other risk factors, it’s essential to take advantage of medical alert systems and the benefits that come with them. Besides helping you in an emergency, it could also save your life.

What Is a Medical Alert System?

An emergency medical system, or a personal emergency response system (PERS), is a network of interconnected devices, personnel and resources that provide rapid response to medical emergencies.

Medical alert devices can also help prevent injuries by providing elderly residents with important alerts when they cannot get up or respond to their surroundings. The devices send distress si gnals to family or caregivers if the user falls or becomes immobile.

Medical alert systems are useful for promoting rapid deployment, so patients receive the best care in a timely manner. Agencies and providers can communicate more easily to treat the patient, and coordinated responses can improve the chances of success for patients.

Types of Medical Alert Devices

Depending on your needs and lifestyle, you can choose between a mobile or home-based medical alert device.

Home-Based Systems

Home-based medical alert systems often consist of a base unit connected to a landline or cellular network and a help button. All you need to do is ensure the button range extends in and around your home's perimeter and in the yard where you could potentially fall and need help. Home-based systems might also feature sensors to identify if you fall, medication reminders and carbon monoxide detectors.

Mobile Systems

A mobile medical alert system will work anywhere you have cellular coverage. With GPS tracking, you can activate these devices while on the go, and EMS will be dispatched to your exact location. For example, SmartWatch with GPS and fall detection can be conveniently worn on the wrist, featuring a pedometer and heart rate monitoring to enhance your safety.

Some mobile systems come with a smartphone app. This allows your loved ones to track the device's location and receive alerts when you leave or arrive home or when the battery gets too low.

Wearable Devices

There are two main types of wearable medical alert devices:

• Pendants / Necklace: Pendants are the most common type of medical alert device. They hang around your neck like a necklace and contain a transmitter button that sends alerts to the emergency response center to notify your caregiver or family.
• Watches / Bracelets: Wristwatches or bracelets are another popular type of medical alert device. A standard medical alert button can be worn on the wrist with a stretchy wrist band. A Smart Watch will have a small display screen and help button to call for help. It can also alert you when it's time to take your medicine.

Why Seniors Need Medical Alert Systems

If you're an older adult, you know that accidents and emergencies can happen unexpectedly. If something does happen, you should have a way to get help. That's why a medical alert device is so important for seniors.

Statistics show that more than one in four people 65 and older fall each year, often as a result of certain health conditions or cognitive impairments. As we age, our eyesight, hearing and reflexes can also weaken, putting us at a greater risk of falls.

Seniors who have a medical alert device may be less likely to require hospitalization or long-term care due to an accidental fall. The devices can also be used outside of the home, promoting independence while allowing older adults to be active without worrying about falling. If you're concerned about your health and want to ensure you can get help in an emergency, consider getting a medical alert device. Medical alert devices can save your life if you experience a health emergency.

A medical alert system connects you to emergency responders via your cellphone or landline. This way, if something happens and you can't speak, the emergency responders can reach you easily. 

Who Benefits From Medical Alert Systems?

Medical alert systems specifically benefit older adults who live alone and individuals with medical conditions. They're also ideal for caregivers and family members who want peace of mind that their loved ones are safe when they are away from them. Let's look at how each group can benefit from a PERS:

• Older adults living on their own: Seniors who live alone have specific needs and challenges. They may require medication management or help monitoring their blood pressure or oxygen levels. Additionally, with an increased risk of falls, they need help accessing emergency services when alone, which is easier with a medical alert system.
• Individuals with medical conditions: Older adults are more prone to health conditions like COPD, heart disease and diabetes, which can result in an emergency. In addition, issues with your thyroid, nerves or blood vessels can impact balance and cause falls, making a monitoring system critical for emergency situations.
• Caregivers and family members of older adults: Medical alert monitoring systems can support caregiving, putting family members at ease knowing their loved ones are safer in an emergency. If you have an elderly loved one, you may benefit from a home-based or mobile medical alert system.
• People with mobility issues: A medical alert system is especially important for seniors who can no longer use stairs or walk long distances. A single call can get help right to your doorstep. Because people often don't realize how frail our elders can become in an emergency situation, a medical alert system can be the difference between life and death.

Those who might not benefit from medical alert systems include older adults with advanced dementia or an extremely limited range of motion, as they may have trouble using them correctly. Additionally, medical alert devices aren't a substitute for frail or palliative care, which may require hiring a caregiver or moving into an assisted living facility to receive proper care.

Why Use Medical Alert Devices?

The life-saving benefits of medical alert devices are unquestionable. If you are ever in an accident or experience a medical emergency, your medical alert device will notify your family or friends so they can come to your aid. The benefits of these devices include:

Enhanced Safety and Security

If you have a PERS, the device will notify an emergency call center when you press the button if an accident occurs, or you have a health issue including cardiac arrest, seizure or stroke. With a medical alert device, someone is available 24/7 to respond when needed — no matter where they are or what they're doing. You won't miss important calls or notifications while trying to take care of yourself in an emergency situation.

The device will also send an emergency notification to your caregiver's phone, regardless of where they are. No matter where they are or what they're doing, they can get help for you as soon as possible. Depending on the type of PERS you have, your loved ones may be able to access your alerts even if you aren't near your device.

Increased Independence

People who use medical alert devices often find that they are more comfortable in their everyday lives because they no longer need to rely on others for assistance. For example, someone who uses a wheelchair may no longer need someone to help them into or out of their chair.

In addition, people with medical alert devices may be able to manage tasks independently, such as bathing or dressing themselves, without assistance from loved ones. Seniors with diabetes can also benefit from having access to a medical alert system.

Some medical alert devices have a built-in speech recognition system that lets your caregiver know how to help you. So, even if you can't speak, your caregiver can still understand what needs to be done and carry out those instructions accordingly. These devices can reduce the need for constant supervision, allowing you to live alone safely.

Mobile medical alert devices can also increase confidence, allowing you to get active or enjoy activities outside of the house without fear of falling or having an emergency when there is no one around.

Convenience and Ease of Use

While assembling your PERS may appear too technical or daunting at first, you'll find plenty of systems that are easy to install and even easier to use. Many systems register automatically on your cellular network, allowing you to access emergency services with just a touch of a button. Others utilize sensors to monitor your activity and issue alerts when something appears to be wrong.

The systems are usually easy to use as well, as they come in pendants, bracelets or even smartwatches you can wear on your body. The slim, discreet designs make the devices convenient and less noticeable to other people. Instead of reaching or searching for a phone or person, you just press a button for help.

Peace of Mind

These systems can provide families with peace of mind, knowing that their loved ones have access to immediate help and support. Senior medical alert devices can also come with features like fall detection, medication reminders and GPS tracking, further enhancing the safety and well-being of seniors.

Considerations When Choosing a Medical Alert System

Consider the following factors to help you choose the right medical alert system for yourself or a loved one:

Alert Preferences

Medical alert systems provide a wide variety of medical alert options so you can find the one best suited for your needs. With 24/7 monitoring, you can be confident that if there is an emergency, help will be available quickly. Many medical alert companies, such as Medical Care Alert, have a variety of customization options so you can make sure the system is exactly what you want. The system is affordable and easy to use, making it an ideal option for older adults and their families.

Costs

When considering the pros and cons of medical alert systems, monthly fees are a common disadvantage that people list. However, many older adults find that medical alert systems are well worth it, as they enhance safety and security by offering 24/7 support. Monitored systems have monthly subscription fees that allow you to access a 24/7 call center with just the push of a button for around $1 a day.

While less expensive than monitored systems, unmonitored systems do not field calls through an emergency call center and typically lack features like fall dedication, wellness checks and medication reminders. As a result, it's important to consider your budgetary preferences and the type of device you or your loved one may need.

Range and Coverage

Consider your lifestyle when choosing a mobile, or home-based alert system. A mobile device makes it easier to access emergency support when on the go, making it ideal for active adults.

At the same time, a home-based medical alert device is ideal for older adults who primarily need to be monitored around the house. It connects to a cellular network that can extend the interior of your home and outdoor spaces. That way, you have support whether you're climbing your stairs, taking a shower, getting the mail or gardening.

Customization Options

Consider your specific needs when choosing a medical alert system and whether you'll need customizable features. These could include reminders to take your medication or sensors can detect a fall. Some systems include smartphone apps for family and caregivers who want additional insight and ability to manage the PERS system remotely.

Customer Support and Reviews

Lastly, consider a device with reliable customer support in case you have trouble installing it or need assistance. The right company will include user reviews and ratings on their website so you know the devices are reliable and helpful for your specific needs.

Choose Medical Care Alert Devices for Peace of Mind

If you are an older adult or have a medical condition, consider getting a medical alert device. Medical alerts can help you and your loved ones in an emergency. Many types of medical alert devices are available, so it is important to find one that meets your specific needs. With this device, you can stay safe and live life to the fullest.

Remember that you aren't alone in this journey. We're here to support you every step of the way. Call Medical Care Alert today at 855-272-1010 or order a medical alert system today.