Choosing a Personal Medical Alarm System

An alarm that lets them press a button to reach a dispatcher who can call emergency services or notify loved ones is an attractive choice for older adults, yet finding one with all its systems, features, monthly fees and equipment costs can be challenging. A healthcare professional might offer suggestions regarding systems tailored specifically to their needs as well as help navigate insurance coverage policies more easily.

Medical alert systems offer 24-hour monitoring at a central station facility staffed with trained professionals. Many systems also feature backup systems to add redundancy; additionally, some offer home systems that work over landline phones as well as portable systems for travel purposes.

Studies have demonstrated that PERS users who access a service center use emergency departments less often. Furthermore, those who own such systems report greater peace of mind while living alone and less anxiety over living alone.

Though research results were encouraging, there remain challenges associated with medical alert systems. According to multiple studies, end users don't always remember or can manage to activate it when needed, particularly mentally confused people. Furthermore, false alarms may tie up 911 dispatchers and delay responses for real emergencies [1,2].

Some medical alert systems offer activity sensors that detect movement in a user's home and sends signals back to their base unit when detected, providing live maps of where they are in real-time as well as alerting caregivers or family members when assistance is required.

Setting up a system is typically straightforward and can be completed using either phone or video tutorials. Most providers also offer customer support as well as an FAQ page to answer any queries. Most at-home systems come equipped with battery backup that notifies when batteries need replacing; wearable devices are rechargeable via a USB cable connection.

medical alert systems Before shopping for a system, it's important to determine what features are most important to you and your loved ones. Will you prefer home or portable monitoring solutions, or both? Some mobile systems come equipped with GPS tracking features which could prove particularly helpful should your loved one ever become disoriented while away from home. Are you in search of an automatic fall detection and prevention feature, as well as one with an emergency responder access lockbox to allow them entry without damaging windows or doors? Many systems offer such options either built-in or for an additional fee. Consider how much you are willing to invest in a system, including monthly fees and equipment costs. Also keep in mind how the system interacts with mobile phones or smartwatches and consider adding those features if applicable.