Due to how simple it is to contact for assistance in the event of a health emergency, many individuals believe medical alert systems to be beneficial. They can be especially beneficial for elderly individuals who live alone, but they can also be helpful for anybody with a medical condition or limited mobility.
What exactly is a medical alert system?
When you experience a medical emergency, a medical alert device, commonly referred to as a personal emergency response system (PERS), lets you call emergency personnel.
Because you might not be able to access or use a phone to call for aid in a medical emergency, medical alert devices are helpful. Many medical alert systems are made so that you may call for assistance by just pushing a button. Some technologies can recognize when you fall and automatically summon help.
Although anybody can use a medical alert system, elderly persons and those with mobility issues or medical illnesses utilize them. Medical alert systems can make elderly persons who spend most of the day alone feel safe and comfortable while maintaining their independence.
Must-haves for senior safety:
— Knapp Pharmacy (@Knapprxnyc) January 10, 2023
- Handrails on both sides of the stairwell and restroom.
- Make sure entryways, stairs and pathways are properly lit.
- Medical alert systems allow easy calls for help in an emergency.
- Get non-skid bathroom mats to prevent slips.#health #usa #nyc pic.twitter.com/ehmddow9Ru
Are medical alert systems worth the money?
A medical alert system may be worthwhile if you spend most of the day alone. It can not only keep you secure, but it can also provide you and your loved ones peace of mind.
Medical alert systems differ in their features. The costs and advantages of one model may not apply to another. Before you buy a medical alert device, make sure you know how much it costs and what it comes with.
A 2017 study found that consumers who buy medical alert systems typically feel safer and more secure, allowing them to be more active around their homes.
But following an emergency, they often stay in the hospital for the same length of time as persons without alert devices. It suggests that the outcome might be the same whether you have a device or not.
Pros
- Immediately reaches out to family members or emergency services
- Easy to use
- Some feature technology for detecting falls.
- Some offer location monitoring so an agent can see your current position.
- Increased mental calm
Cons
- Using it could be stressful
- A few have long-term agreements
- Some have unstated fees.
- Some do not contact emergency services and instead contact their loved ones.
Featured advantages
From model to model, features differ. Others are portable, allowing you to use them while you're out working out, shopping, or running errands. Some are in-home gadgets that can be used from almost anywhere in your home.
The following characteristics are especially useful:
- Monitoring: Some medical alert systems are unmanned or not monitored at all. Therefore, there is no intermediary. When you press the button, you are connected to local emergency services or the person you have listed as your emergency contact. With 24/7 monitoring, however, a knowledgeable representative will first chat with you and, if necessary, summon emergency services.
- Mobility: Take into account choosing a device that has a wearable option. These frequently have emergency buttons on bracelets or pendants. It enables you to request assistance even if you are far from the base unit. Consider getting a mobile medical alert gadget, which functions even while you're not at home if you regularly leave the house.
- Wearable medical alert devices that are waterproof are often small and light. It is a smart idea since you may use them in the shower or bath, which are places where you could run across fall hazards like slick bathmats or damp floors.
- GPS tracking: Because GPS monitoring makes it possible for a representative to observe your whereabouts, they can quickly route emergency services to you.
- Medical alert systems can often connect to your landline or cellular network. PERS can also utilize a cellular carrier if you don't have a piece of landline equipment. If you choose a cellular connection, be sure your location receives a signal from the provider.
- Automatic fall detection: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls can be especially deadly for older persons (CDC). Some medical alert systems can send help even if you can't get up or reach the emergency button since they automatically detect when you fall.
While not all medical alert systems give the characteristics mentioned above, many of them do. For wearable devices and automated fall detection, most businesses charge more.
Optional rewards
Although most individuals don't require the following qualities, they might be helpful:
- Connectivity to loved ones: Some medical alert systems let your family and friends check in on you, often through an app. Your loved ones may be able to discover if you requested assistance with your consent. They could also have access to your location and the state of your device.
- Reminders to take your medication: A few gadgets can do this for you. You or a family member can set it up to remind you when and what medicines to take.
Keep an eye out for medical alert providers that provide such services if they seem valuable to you.
Who needs to utilize medical alert systems?
Anybody can purchase a medical alert system if they believe it would benefit them. But older folks are often targeted by their marketing.
Medical alarm systems are very beneficial for
- Aging elderly who desire independence
- Elderly folks who spend most of the day alone
- Seniors who are at risk of falling
- Senior citizens who desire to feel safer at home
- Someone who has a medical condition that might cause an emergency
- Anyone whose mobility makes it impossible for them to get a phone in an emergency
If you're unclear whether a medical alert system can benefit you, look into its advantages and consider consulting a doctor or close family members.
👉For More than a Decade Medihill has held A+ Better Business Bureau Rating!
— Medihill Medical Alert Systems 🇺🇲 (@Medihill) January 12, 2023
#bestservices #achievement #success #rating #telehealth #monitoring #lifealert #emergency #medicalalerts #medihill pic.twitter.com/kc1dQirqAT
Who should avoid using medical alert systems?
Medical alert systems don't have many disadvantages, some people might not find them useful.
Even though medical alert devices are fairly simple to operate, someone with advanced dementia or a limited range of motion may be unable to do so.
A medical alert device isn't a substitute for frail care or palliative care. Even while these tools might prolong elderly people's independence, it can still be essential to employ a caretaker or think about moving into an assisted living facility.
Fine print
Because medical alert systems vary from company to company, it's important to know what they include and how much they cost.
We offer a validated list of the top medical alert systems and the top items to assist senior citizens at home if you're searching for a simpler approach to selecting a medical alert device.
Monthly fees and one-time device costs
Medical alert systems that are monitored all have monthly costs. Some businesses charge a one-time price for the gadgets, while others charge you extra to lease them.
There may also be additional one-time payments for:
- Activation
- Installing and setting up
- Delivery
- Advantages like a lock box
There could be an extra charge for some functions, such as automatic fall detection.
Money-back promise?
Not every business has a refund policy for its products. However, some companies provide a risk-free trial period so you may test the product before buying.
Warranty?
Many businesses let you return damaged goods, but not all of them provide accidental damage warranties.
Contract?
Very few businesses provide month-to-month contracts with no cancellation fees. Some impose costs for cancellations. Some businesses, like Life Alert, tie you down with lengthy contracts that might be hard to end.
Where to get authentic consumer reviews
On their websites, medical alert firms provide gratifying comments from customers. These may be legitimate, but they frequently cherry-pick the pros and cons of their goods.
We advise looking at client comments: for more fair reviews.
- Reviews on Google
- Yelp
- Amazon
- Better Business Bureau
- via social media
It's advisable to read reviews on several websites, both favorable and bad. It helps you understand the advantages and disadvantages of doing business with the organization.
Check out The 9 Best Medical Alert Systems for 2023 for more unbiased information.
Most common inquiries
How much does a medical alert system typically cost?
Monitoring medical alert systems can cost anything from $25 and $95 per month. You might have to pay more if you want extra features like automatic fall detection.
One-time charges for the device, delivery, activation, and installation might be in the $50 to $250 range.
The sensitivity of medical alert systems
Dropping a gadget that detects falls might mistakenly activate it.
Depending on the manufacturer and equipment, fall detection systems have varying degrees of sensitivity.
You can tell the agent who calls you that you accidentally set it off even if it is conceivable.
How can I stop them?
Typically, medical alert systems feature an "off" button that is prominently marked. If you can't find it, go to your user handbook. The company's customer service number is another option, and they may walk you through the process of turning it off.
Are medical alert systems secure and private?
Yes. Many of them have privacy rules that safeguard your identity and geographic information.
Apps from certain businesses let you link your gadget to one on your loved one's phone. Your loved ones may occasionally be able to see your location using these applications. You would need to provide your permission, though.
Consult the company's privacy policies if you have any privacy concerns.
Does Medicare cover medical alert devices?
Your plan will determine this. While Original Medicare does not cover medical alert devices, Medicare Advantage plans may. If you have Part C of Medicare, your plan might cover medical alert systems. But it's best to check with your plan provider to see if they offer this benefit.
The AARP advises the use of a medical alert system.
Medical alarm systems are encouraged by the AARP. It doesn't, however, endorse any one product or brand.
The conclusion
Medical alert devices can help you feel safe if you want to live on your own. If you have trouble moving around or are always bumping into things, these devices might be a lifesaver.
Our collection of evaluations and comparisons might help you get started if you're thinking about using a medical alert device:
Reviews of medical alert systems from Healthline
- Bay Alarm Medical Alert System evaluation
- LifeFone Review for 2023: Is It the Right Phone for You?
- Analyses of Medical Alert Systems from MobileHelp
- Who Is the Best Fit for the Philips Lifeline Medical Alert System?
- A Lively Mobile Plus review
- Who Is It For? Life Alert Reviews for 2023
- Review of ADT Medical Alert Systems: All You Need to Know
- Do You Need a GetSafe Medical Alert System?
- Medical Alert Reviews 2023: Benefits and Drawbacks, Specifications, and More