People who have a history of falls, heart attacks or strokes should consider using a medical alert system. These systems, offered by companies such as LifeFone and Medical Guardian, can connect the user to a 24/7 emergency response center.A wearable button – usually worn around the neck or on the wrist – can be pressed to connect with a monitoring center. A trained agent will then evaluate the situation and dispatch EMS or contact the user’s caregivers.CustomizationMedical pendant alarms provide a quick response to a patient’s heart rate or a change in the patient’s condition, preventing serious injuries. These systems can also help a person manage their condition, and some offer GPS technology, automatic fall detection, and two-way communication capabilities. These devices are available for use at home, in the car, and on the go.A medical alert system is a great choice for older adults who want to avoid calling 911 when they need help. They work with a cellular base station and one or more waterproof help buttons that can be worn on a necklace, wristband, or lanyard. When the button is pushed, a signal is sent to the base station, which calls emergency services or a contact list of family members. The device can be set up to send notifications to multiple people when a button is pressed, and many have adjustable volume levels, customizable ringtones, and LED backlights for those with hearing impairment.Alarm fatigue is a significant concern in healthcare settings. Repeated, non-actionable or invalid alarms reduce a clinician’s priority to respond and lead to dissatisfaction and fatigue. The problem is multifaceted and requires an approach that includes optimizing alarms, enhancing clinical workflow, and research on alarm design. Adjustments to alarm tone and thresholds and reducing their frequency can improve clinician vigilance and reduce desensitization.ReliabilityA medical alert system is a great way to ensure that your loved ones can get help when needed. It consists of a wearable help button (worn as a necklace or bracelet) that communicates with the base station. When you press the button, a call is placed to a UL-listed monitoring center, where a professional will evaluate the situation and contact the user’s designated caregiver or EMS. Some systems have additional features that allow the device to detect a fall or send GPS location information.The best medical alert systems have a fast response time and are easy to use. They also have the added benefit of a lockbox, which allows emergency responders to gain access to your home without damaging doors or windows. These devices are available for purchase separately or as an add-on to a service plan.Choosing the right system for your loved one requires a lot of thought. You should consider how it will be used and if the wearable button can be recharged. The system should also be water-resistant, which is an important feature for people living in rainy or cold climates.The device should be easy to set up, and most companies provide detailed instructions. Some also offer phone support if you have questions. The most reliable medical alert systems offer a money-back guarantee.SafetyThere are many safety measures that can be built into medical alert systems. Some include medication reminders, activity sensors that notify caregivers when a device user isn’t following their normal routine, home air and temperature monitoring for potential dangers like carbon monoxide poisoning or low indoor temperatures. Some systems allow users to leave a key with the monitoring center or a trusted neighbor so that emergency responders can get into the house even if the user is unable to open the door.The most important consideration in choosing a system is how quickly the response team will be able to connect with the user in an emergency. Most monitored systems have a central station that is staffed by 24/7 operators who can connect the user with EMS or their designated caregivers. Some systems also have internal backup systems for additional redundancy.Unmonitored systems have no monthly fee but typically provide less comprehensive protection. They send a call to 911 or the user’s predesignated emergency contacts when the button is pushed and play a recorded message afterward. They can be useful for people who don’t want to pay a monthly monitoring fee or who prefer their family or friends as their first point of contact. In general, our Reviews Team recommends monitored systems over unmonitored ones. However, both offer benefits that can be valuable for older adults and their families.CostThe cost of a medical alert system depends on the number and type of devices you choose and how much monitoring you need. Some systems are self-monitored, while others require a base station and one or more wearable or wall buttons that communicate with each other via cellular, Wi-Fi, or GPS technology. Some systems also include a lockbox to help emergency responders quickly gain access to your home without having to force entry.Some systems charge a monthly subscription, while others charge a flat fee per device or year. In general, a monthly subscription is cheaper than an annual fee, but the initial investment may be higher. Some companies will waive the equipment fees if you buy their systems outright.Most medical alarm systems offer add-on products and features to make their services more comprehensive. For example, you can purchase a fall detection pendant that will call for help when it detects a fall, and many brands allow you to link multiple necklaces with a single base station. Choosing the right add-ons will help you save money and get the most out of your medical alert system. panic alarm button for elderly Besides adding extra layers of security, some of these systems also give you the option to customize the appearance of your device. For instance, Bay Alarm Medical offers decorative charm covers to disguise the help button so that no one knows it’s a medical alert device. These customizations can increase your likelihood of wearing your device regularly.