Notes

Medical Alert Systems For Older Adults
A medical alert system includes a wearable device such as a necklace pendant, bracelet or smartwatch with a button to push when help is needed. It also includes a base station that connects to a monitoring center.

The emergency alert system is a national public warning service that broadcasts messages through multiple pathways (including radio and television) to inform people about significant hazards, disasters and other important information.
What is a Medical Alert System?

Medical alert systems create a layer of safety for older adults who live alone or are at risk of wandering from home. They provide the ability to call for assistance at a push of a button, and some offer added features that can help caregivers manage the health of their loved one.

The most basic system is comprised of a wearable help button and a base station (for in-home systems) or mobile unit with cellular technology. Depending on the package, the system may include additional sensors, such as fall detection and GPS tracking. Some systems also feature a linked app that allows caregivers to check on their loved ones from anywhere.

In the event of a fall, the user can press their emergency button to connect with a monitoring center professional. From there, the staff can evaluate the situation and decide whether to contact EMS or the user’s caregivers. Most medical alert companies offer a 30-second response time, which is much faster than the average phone call.

Lone Worker Alarms UK Choosing the right medical alert system requires consideration of your lifestyle and budget. Some providers charge up-front equipment fees, while others rent or sell the equipment for a monthly fee. Consider whether you’ll use your device at home or on-the-go, and what type of add-on features you need, such as fitness and activity tracking, daily check-in services, or access to a nurse or board-certified doctor.
In-Home Medical Alert Systems

The main components of an in-home medical alert system are a base station that connects to wearable pendants and wall buttons. When someone presses one of these help buttons, it signals to the provider’s monitoring center that an emergency has occurred. The call is usually answered in under two minutes, and the operator can dispatch emergency services or notify a caregiver.

Most systems include a variety of special features, such as fall detection, that may be useful for people at risk of falling or who have a history of falls. These features can be found on the devices or as add-ons for an additional monthly fee. Some systems also come with a lockbox to keep an emergency key on hand in case of an evacuation or other unexpected circumstance, and many offer Bluetooth technology that can be linked to other smart devices, such as glucose monitors, smartphones, and even smart TVs.

More than 69% of respondents to our Reviews Team’s survey said that fast response time is the most important feature to consider when choosing a medical alert system. Make sure you read each company’s response time information on their website or ask the sales department about it if you can’t find it.
Mobile Medical Alert Systems

A mobile Medical Alert System works on a cellular network so it's not bound to your home. These systems can include a base station (on-the-go systems don't usually require one) and a help button that you wear around your neck or wrist, clip to your belt, carry in a purse or pocket or place in a wall-mounted case. Some companies offer GPS mobile devices with location-tracking abilities that sync up with the monitoring center in an emergency and can automatically contact 911 if you don't respond after a certain number of minutes.

You can also choose a non-GPS mobile system that operates on the AT&T or Verizon networks, which have broad coverage across the country. These devices don't offer location-tracking capabilities but do have other features such as fall detection and medication reminders that can be handy for seniors with limited mobility.

If you want a cellular-based mobile Medical Alert System, check the device's connection range with AT&T's and Verizon's coverage maps before purchasing to make sure your home will be within their networks. You will also need to decide if you want a monitored or unmonitored system; our Reviews Team recommends a monitored system since it ensures that you will connect with a monitoring center professional in an emergency. Unmonitored systems go directly to 911 or a list of emergency contacts, but the person who receives the call might not have the information needed for an efficient response.
Unmonitored Medical Alert Systems

While unmonitored systems may be less expensive than monitored options, they’re also often less reliable. That’s because when an unmonitored device is pressed, it connects directly to 911 or the emergency contacts you’ve designated – which can be dangerous if your contacts don’t answer or aren’t available. It can also be problematic if the system doesn’t have fall detection technology, which is a must-have if you’re at risk of falls (one in three seniors suffer from them every year and nearly 684,000 die from them).

If you’re interested in an unmonitored medical alert system, look for one with a cellular connection that has a good range for optimal mobility. And keep in mind that many long-term care insurance policies cover the cost of medical alarm systems, so check with your policy provider for details.

Many people think that only elderly adults who live alone need a medical alert system, but the truth is that anyone with a chronic disease or physical or cognitive impairment can benefit from it. Whether you live alone or with a supportive network of family and friends, a medical alert system can help you stay safe at home and out and about. And with a variety of options to choose from, there’s bound to be an alert system that fits your needs and budget.
Read More: https://loneworkerdevices.co.uk/