Notes

Fall Monitoring Devices
If you or someone you know is at risk of falling, a medical alert system with fall detection can help. These systems use sensors that track movement, such as an accelerometer.

They also typically include a button the user can press if they are unable to call for help themselves. Some brands offer on-the-go systems that work outside the home and even in the bath or shower.
Safety

Fall detection is one of the most important safety features a medical alert system can offer. Without the technology, someone who falls at home may not have the energy or time to reach a phone to call for help, or they could lose consciousness before anyone arrives.

When the sensors in a medical alert device detect that a person has fallen, they trigger an alert to the monitoring center. Then, a representative from the monitoring company will connect with the wearer through two-way communication to assess the situation and determine whether emergency assistance is needed. Many devices allow the user to say they aren't injured, and if that is the case, the monitoring center will not dispatch an ambulance.

Most systems feature sensors that use accelerometers to recognize the type of sudden movement associated with falls. In some cases, the device may also include a barometric sensor to measure changes in air pressure like those caused by an abrupt shift from standing to prone position.

It's worth noting that no fall detection system is 100% accurate, and false alarms can occur from time to time. For this reason, most systems come with a help button that can be pressed in the event of an accidental false alarm. Then, the user can speak directly to a representative from the monitoring company to explain the situation and cancel any emergency services that are requested.
Around-the-Clock Emergency Response

Fall detection sensors are calibrated to account for the patterns of drops and falls, but they cannot be 100% accurate. That’s why many medical alert devices with this feature also offer a manual call button that you can press if you want to report a false alarm (or if the sensor didn’t trigger your fall).

A wearable fall monitoring device with built-in motion-sensing technology can detect a fall when it senses falling-like movements. It then sends a signal to the medical alert company’s monitoring center that you need help. Some devices are monitored by a live representative who can assess your situation and dispatch emergency responders if necessary. Others are unmonitored, which means you will have to call for help yourself.

While you can find standalone devices with fall detection, most medical alert systems include this technology as an option for an additional monthly fee. Medical Alarms It is also common to find the feature offered as part of a home automation system with ambient sensors that are mounted on walls and activated by voice or a push of a button.

Before you purchase a medical alert device with added fall detection, check to see what features it includes, such as:
Waterproof

Fall detection can't protect you from every crack in the sidewalk or slip on a tile floor, but it can help prevent serious injury. The top medical alert systems with automatic fall detection (like Lively Mobile Plus, our highest-rated system) can sense when you've fallen and connect you to a trained agent—even if you can't press your device's help button.

A waterproof rating is also important for a medical alert system with fall detection because you may wear your help button while showering or around water. You can find this information on the manufacturer's website or in online consumer reviews.

Some medical alert systems, like Bay Alarm Medical and Medical Guardian, offer a waterproof version of their devices. You can also add a waterproof pendant to their in-home and on-the-go plans for extra protection.

Many waterproof medical alert devices also have a mobile monitoring feature that allows you to use your help button on the go, even in a shower or pool. This feature uses a cellular connection to send your location to the monitoring center when you push your help button, but it can only work if there is a compatible cellular network available.

Some medical alert companies have extra fees for adding fall detection to your plan, including activation and installation. But other companies—like Lifeline, which offers a discounted rate for AARP members—don't include these extra costs when you see the monthly price on their websites.
Easy to Use

When choosing a fall detection device, it's important to consider the ease of use. Look for a system with clear two-way communication, which allows the 24-hour emergency response center to contact a person who's fallen to see if they need assistance. Many systems also offer GPS tracking, which helps family members or primary caregivers find an incapacitated loved one if they're lost outside of the home.

Most medical alert devices come with a button that can be pressed in the event of a fall, but some feature automatic fall detection. This feature is ideal for people who may have difficulty pressing the help button themselves. Many chronic conditions, including Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and seizure disorders, can cause dizziness or loss of consciousness that could prevent a person from triggering their fall detection device.

All the reviewed devices allow a user to connect with a live emergency dispatcher using their call button. But, the most important question to ask is whether a system comes with monitored or unmonitored fall detection. Over three-quarters of CR members who own Lifeline, MobileHelp, or Medical Guardian say their device includes fall detection. A monitored system's call button can be used to call 911, while an unmonitored system can only be programmed to contact a family member or emergency responder. Unmonitored systems are typically cheaper but require a monthly monitoring fee.
Website: https://personalmedicalalarms.com.au/