Medical Alert Systems For Seniors

Medical alert systems can help seniors stay safe in their homes and on the go. They work by connecting with a 24/7 monitoring center when a senior presses a button on their device.

Some medical alert systems also come with a lockbox to allow emergency responders or caregivers access to the home without damaging windows or doors. We review these features and more in this article.

In-Home Systems

One Call Alert's at-home landline systems are simple, easy to set up, and require no long-term contracts or hidden fees. The company also offers a money-saving bundle and month-to-month options.

When seniors press their devices’ help buttons, they are connected to a 24/7 monitoring center. A professional at that center can dispatch first responders or a caregiver to your location if you need assistance.

Many medical alert companies have additional features that can enhance your experience, such as GPS tracking and two-way communication. The type of device you choose depends on your lifestyle and budget. For example, a senior with dementia might need a wearable that has a built-in GPS tracker to help rescue services locate him or her if they wander. Other senior-focused devices are available from providers such as Lively and MobileHelp, which offer smarter PERS systems with automatic fall detection.

Mobile Systems

Depending on your needs, you can choose an at-home system or an on-the-go one. Both systems provide 24/7 monitoring by EMT/EMD-certified response teams. They also include a free lock box that allows emergency responders entry into your home in the event of a fall or other medical emergency.

Choosing the best medical alert system depends on your lifestyle and budget. Check out NCOA’s BenefitsCheckUp to see if you qualify for money-saving benefits programs that can help pay for a device.

Bay Alarm Medical offers a range of options, including an in-home landline device and a cellular mobile device with optional fall detection. Their cellular devices use a reliable network to connect with the monitoring center and offer two-way communication. They also include medication reminders and a free tablet that seniors can use to play cognitive games or call their care team for assistance.

Cancellation Options

Many medical alert system providers offer no-contract options for their devices. The best mobile systems also come with an app that allows caregivers and loved ones to monitor the user’s location.

Life Alert has been around for decades and is the name most people associate with medical alert systems. personal alarms AU However, it does have a three-year contract and there are fees associated with ending the subscription if you or your loved one passes away during the contract term or if they move into a nursing facility.

Some reviews of the company mention pushy sales representatives and a lack of transparency regarding the cost of service. Other issues include caregivers receiving monthly bills after their loved ones pass and difficulty getting out of the contract when a subscriber moves to a nursing facility or dies.

Lockboxes

During an emergency, every second counts and having to break down doors or kick down windows can slow down response times. With a lockbox, first responders can gain entry quickly.

Typically, these are small metal boxes that hang outside the home with a combination lock that can only be opened by those authorized to do so. During an emergency, dispatchers can send the lockbox location and combination to the responding officer or paramedic.

Many medical alert systems offer these devices and can be used in conjunction with other services like long-distance calling and fall detection. However, it is important to note that these devices have a contract requirement and may have high cancellation fees. Choosing a reputable company with month-to-month options is a better option.

Fast Response Time

Although each medical alert system has its own set of devices, features and options, all of them work towards the same goal -- to connect seniors with help quickly. A senior simply presses a button on their device to contact their provider's monitoring center and receive assistance.

Many systems have options for emergency responders or caregivers to gain access into the home without damaging a window or door. These locks are typically included or available as an inexpensive add-on.

Other features that make some medical alert systems more appealing include a waterproof help button, medication reminders and a mobile app for family and caregiver tracking. These features can give peace of mind for seniors who want to remain active outside their home with the safety and security a medical alert system offers.