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Medical alert systems for seniors provide exceptional peace of mind. But there are some myths floating around out there about these helpful devices and you may question if they are as good as advertised. The fact is that an estimated three million people are protected by a medical alert device every day[2]. It can be a true life-saver, and in fact, it is for many people.
Let’s look at how the systems work, and then bust through those myths, one at a time.
How Do Medical Alert Systems Work?
Medical alert pendants, watches, or bracelets are designed as a “one push” connection to get help fast. How does this work? At Alert1, when a member presses their emergency button alarm, it sends an alert to the Command Center, where trained professionals answer the call. They speak directly to you. When they determine what has happened, they can then go down your list of contacts – this might include friends, family, or neighbors – or if the situation is more serious, they can call 911 or other emergency services. They will then stay on the line with you until help arrives and they know you are in good hands.
You can also opt for an alarm with fall detection. Tiny sensors in the pendant can detect a fall, and transmit this information to the Command Center. Therefore, even if you can’t press the fall alarm button yourself, the Center will know you are in trouble and will make sure you get the help you need.
Another good option is a medical alert system with GPS. If you happen to be away from home, even in another state, the GPS in your device can help emergency services find you. This location tracing can be a huge help when time is of the essence.
Now that you know how they work, let’s look at the myths about medical alert pendants.
Myth #1: I’ve never fallen, so why would I need one?
Fact: According to the CDC, every second in the United States, an adult over the age of 65 suffers a fall. Twenty percent of those falls will result in serious injury, such as a broken bone. It’s important to remember that falls can happen to anyone; in fact, you’ve probably taken a tumble or two in your lifetime. But as we get older, our bodies don’t bounce back as well, and the risks of a broken bone often increase. That’s why medical alerts for the elderly are a must.
Unfortunately, many people choose to get these senior life-saving systems after they have already suffered a fall and have seen the potential consequences of not being able to get help in a timely manner. Please don’t let this happen to you. Get the peace of mind you need right now, not after an accident or injury occurs.
Myth #2: I don’t live alone, so I don’t need a panic button.
Fact: While it is wonderful to have a loved one there by your side throughout the day, there might be times when you are alone. What happens when others in the household run to the store or manage other errands while you are at home? Or it could be as innocent as your spouse taking a nap on a quiet afternoon while you decide to shower – what happens if you fall?
Even if you are always with someone at home, keep in mind that even the closest care of a loved one can’t prevent all falls, injuries, or medical emergencies. In fact, according to the National Council on Aging, half of all falls happen at home – and it’s safe to say that not all of those individuals were alone when the accident occurred.
Myth #3: Aren’t those only for the elderly?
Fact: While seniors greatly benefit from medical alert devices, they aren’t the only ones who can make good use of them. The idea behind the Alert1 Medical Alert device is simple: to get help at the touch of a button. That means help for anyone, from that 30-something mother who is undergoing chemotherapy to that 15-year-old who has a history of seizures.
Though the largest demographic for the product is the elderly, anyone can benefit from it. If you have a chronic medical condition, live on your own, or simply want peace of mind, the medical alert pendant keeps help literally a touch away.
Myth #4: Medical alert technology must be expensive.
Fact: While it seems this type of technology could be pricey, the fact is that you can get protection from Alert1 for less than one dollar a day! You spend more than that on your morning latte, or your phone plan, or that take-out meal you will pick up tonight. The truth is what button alarms are quite gentle on personal finance for seniors.
You can choose to pay on a monthly or annual basis, which helps make it even more affordable. Button alarms are offered at a wide range of affordable prices for everyone from the person who stays at home most of the time to the person who travels the nation with aplomb.
Myth #5: It’s not attractive.
Fact: When the original medical alert necklace first hit the market, it was pretty utilitarian. It didn’t have a lot of style. Today, it’s a whole other story.
Remember, a pendant is not the only option anymore. Our medical alert watch looks sleek and stylish, and fits in well with any sort of attire. As for the medical alert pendant, not only is it small enough to blend in with your outfit, you can also customize it with a colorful lanyard or chain, or wear it as a bracelet.
Myth #6: If you can’t press the button, it doesn’t matter.
Fact: If you opt for a medical alert device with fall technology, you don’t have to press the button at all. Of course, you should try – but what if you can’t? You might be disoriented or injured from a fall and unable to think straight, much less press that button. Fall detection devices use small sensors to detect the direction and speed of the tumble, which then determines on its own that you have fallen. The fall alarm will call the Command Center on your behalf, and you will soon hear trained professionals talking to you, asking what they can do to help you.
But what if you can’t answer? Alert1 has a protocol for that situation. If you can’t respond, the professional at the Command Center will start contacting those who can help you, including emergency services. They will stay on the line with you until they are certain help has arrived.
Myth #7: Don’t you have to know a lot about technology?
Fact: Though medical alert devices employ advanced technology, actually using them couldn’t be simpler. Alert1 not only sends you your devices pre-programmed, but we also offer tech support, videos on our website, as well as assistance via phone if you ever need anything. As for using your alert, simply press the button and wait for the response. It’s literally that simple.
Oh, and a 2015 survey that appeared on Tatango found that 94% of adults over the age of 70 are texting on a weekly basis![3] That survey was from way back in 2015. It’s a safe bet that many more use text messaging today. Using an elderly fall alert device is even easier than sending a text message.
Myth #8: The range is pretty limited.
Fact: Systems for the home begin with a range of about 400 - 600 feet around the base unit. Pause for a moment and think about how much space that covers. A football field is 360 feet long. That gives you more than enough room to move around the house, the driveway, the backyard, and maybe even over to say hello to the neighbor! It’s absolutely ideal for those who are aging in place at home.
If you have on-the-go senior technology, you don’t have to worry about a base unit at all. You can go wherever you please in all 50 US states and know that you have 24/7 protection no matter where you are.
Myth #9: My cell phone is all I need!
Fact: Most of us don’t carry our cell phones with us everywhere, especially not in our own homes. You likely leave yours on the counter or table sometimes. And it’s almost certain you don’t take it into the shower with you, because most cell phones would be ruined!
The good news is that you can have your emergency alarms for seniors comfortably on your person at all times. And our medical alert pendant is showerproof, so you can take it into the shower with you – something you wouldn’t dare try with that cell phone. If you happen to fall in the shower, you’ve got your protection right there. Simply press the panic button and get the help you need.
Myth #10: If I Have a Caregiver, I Don’t Need a Medical Alert
Family caregivers all over the world help their loved ones with aging in place solutions every day. That includes home modifications for the elderly, fall prevention strategies, and care of senior health and wellness. According to a 2020 survey by The Senior List, caregivers list medical alert systems as the top item they would recommend for senior safety. And who would know more about senior health and fall prevention than those who work with their loved one every day to keep them healthy and happy? Let Alert1 help you find peace of mind today.