How To Stay Safe In Your Home For Longer
What Is A Medical Alert System?
A medical alert system is a wearable device that helps you summon emergency assistance when needed. They are commonly worn by elderly or disabled individuals so that help is literally at their fingertips should they fall or experience a life-threatening emergency.
When the button is pushed, it connects to a call center. The call is received by a dispatcher who is able to speak to the person in distress over a loudspeaker. Once they have assessed the situation, they can send emergency assistance or contact a friend of family member depending on the nature of the situation.
When Is It Time For A Medical Alert System?
1. If You’re A Senior Living Alone
For seniors who wish to live at home longer, Medical alert systems can provide valuable security, especially for those who live alone.
2. A Fall Has Occurred Or A History Of Falls
1 in 3 adults over the age of 65 falls every year. If you have already suffered a fall, then it is definitely time to have some kind of around-the-clock care in place – whether that be a nurse, family member, or medical alert system. Once a fall has occurred, the risk of another fall increases, so you are at much greater risk.
3. Unsteady Gait Or Weakness
If you have mobility issues as a result of a past injury or if you have trouble getting around your house, you should definitely consider a system.
4. You Worry A Lot
As we age, we naturally become aware of our physical limitations and worry more about injuring ourselves. If you find that you are experiencing anxiety in response to these thoughts, a medical alert system may be the perfect solution. Knowing that you have 24/7 access to help can put your mind at ease and allow you (and your loved ones) to feel more confident with your choice to live independently.
5. There Is No One Nearby To Help
If you don’t have friends, family, or neighbours nearby who can routinely check on you or arrive quickly should you need assistance, a medical alert system could be life-saving. Receiving timely help in the case of a fall is crucial. 62% of fall victims who don’t receive help within the first hour won’t be able to live alone again once they’ve recovered.
6. Your Medications Have Side Effects
While the benefits of most medications outweigh the negative side effects, it is important to be aware of how they affect your everyday activities. For example, if you take a medication that causes you to experience dizziness or vertigo, you are at higher risk for a fall. Dizziness can affect your coordination and balance, making daily activities like walking up and down the stairs extremely hazardous. Make sure to review the side effects of all of your medications with your doctor.
Other Uses For A Medical Alert System
The benefits of a medical alert system extend beyond falls and medical emergencies, they provide access to emergency help 24 hours a day, which can allow you to keep living independently. There are a wide range of situations when a medical alert system could be lifesaving:
Fires
In the case of a house fire, having access to an alert system could be critical. Even when you are in your home, your phone isn’t always on you or close by and even if it is, dialing 000 can be difficult in moments of panic. With an alert system, an operator can dispatch the nearest fire department within moments.
Robbery
If someone breaks into your home, your alert system is the fastest way to contact authorities. The voice of the operator on the loudspeaker may also act as a deterrent for a robbery in progress.
Wandering
Wandering can be a serious problem for seniors with memory problems, dementia, or Alzheimer’s. In medical alert systems that are GPS enabled, you can quickly locate your loved one.
It is important to evaluate your own lifestyle and needs before making a decision about what you need your system to do.
When shopping for systems, pay attention to the specific qualities of the equipment and service you will be paying for. Here is a list of items to look for:
Water Resistant
The vast majority of falls occur in the shower, so it is imperative that your equipment is at least water resistant.
Comfortable And Lightweight
Make sure that your pendant, whether worn on your wrist or around your neck, is comfortable. Make sure it is attractive and low-profile enough that you will wear it.
Long Battery Life
Make sure that the battery will last for at least a few days at least. Be sure to inquire about how to charge your device.
Range
Make sure that the range for your system is appropriate for the size of the space you live in. For example, if you spend time in your garage, basement, and yard, be sure to take that into account when determining the range it will need to cover.
For seniors who wish to live independently for as long as possible, a medical alert system is essential so you have the peace of mind and security you need to age in place safely.
Sources:
www.aginginplace.org
www.theseniorlist.com/2015/08/what-is-a-medical-alert-system www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2017/medic-alert-systems-options