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A Fall Detector Can Help Seniors Feel More Confident in Their Ability to Live at Home Safely
A fall detector can help seniors feel more confident in their ability to live at home safely. These devices detect falls and then send a signal to an emergency response center, which can dispatch EMS or alert family members or friends to call for help.

The most common fall detection systems use inertial sensors—commonly accelerometers with or without gyroscopes—to measure the vibrations caused by a fall. There are two main ways in which these sensors are used to identify falls: thresholding techniques and machine learning methods. Thresholding techniques are cheaper to implement and require less computational work, but they tend to produce a high rate of false alarms ([8]). Machine learning methods, on the other hand, are more sophisticated and can produce fewer false alarms. working alone alarm However, they may also take longer to detect a fall and require a larger sensor area than thresholding methods.

Many medical alert devices that offer fall detection include a wristband or pendant with a panic button that can be pressed in the event of a fall. The device will then transmit a signal to the emergency response center via WiFi, cellular signals or landline connections. Some devices also include GPS technology, allowing family members or caregivers to track the location of a person who has fallen outside their home, particularly if they’re unconscious or are too scared or confused to communicate.

Studies have shown that older adults are generally favorable toward the use of these technologies, stating that they can provide an added sense of security and improve their quality of life. 137 Nonetheless, some individuals find such devices intrusive and are bothered by frequent false alarms. As such, a key challenge is to develop highly accurate and unobtrusive systems.

While some fall detection systems are designed to be worn on the body, others are incorporated into smartphones and other mobile devices. These portable systems are easier to carry and can provide additional benefits, such as a GPS tracking feature that helps family members and loved ones locate the wearer in case of an emergency.


Regardless of whether a fall detection system is worn or portable, it’s important to look for a device with excellent battery life. The best brands of medical alert devices typically have batteries that last up to three months on a single charge. In addition, be sure to consider the communication requirements of a device—does it need a landline or a cellular connection? What are the monthly monitoring subscription fees and contract requirements? lone worker safety apps Is the device waterproof, especially for use in the bathroom and shower? Also, it’s a good idea to purchase a device that offers two-way communication. This will allow the emergency response center to contact a person who has fallen and ask if they need help and what caused the fall, ensuring that they receive the proper assistance quickly. In addition, it’s helpful to know that a fall detection system can be combined with other medical alert features such as panic buttons, GPS tracking and medication reminders.

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