Some Seniors Struggle with Digital Tech – Why Alert1 is Different

Updated on June 4, 2024

Understanding digital technology is an important part of fully participating in the world, but sometimes new technologies leave seniors behind. In 2019, a survey discovered that around one-third of senior adults over age 65 had never used the Internet. More than half of this population does not have Internet access at home, and while most older adults have cell phones, less than half of them use smartphones. The good news is that you don’t need to be tech-savvy to use an Alert1 medical alert device. Whether you are a senior who is tech savvy or not, no one needs to be left out of this easy to use life-saving technology.

Digital technology developments have consistently left seniors behind. Not only do younger people receive basic technology training in schools and at work, but most technology just isn’t made for older adults. Computer screens may be difficult to see, touch screens may not respond well to older fingers, and many devices require the ability to connect to wireless internet. Beyond that, though, there are a few additional reasons why seniors and elderly adults may struggle with introducing digital technology to their lives.

• Learning new things takes a lot of time, especially as we age. The brain does not as easily remember how to perform new tasks; becoming acquainted with a piece of technology at 65 is a lot different from learning at 15. Even if you want to learn, the process may be harder.
• Some seniors may experience a fear of technology. In most cases, this fear is tied to technology inaccessibility. As we age, we experience changes to perception and motor control, which can make using computers, smartphones, and other devices exceedingly frustrating for older adults. (This is not the case with simple, one-button med alerts, however).
• Digital technology is financially inaccessible for some older adults, who may be living on a fixed income from retirement savings. (Again, this does not apply to affordable Alert1 medical alert systems, where the equipment is free to use and the service rates are the best in the industry).

Unlike some of the digital technology introduced to the world, Alert1 medical alert devices are super simple to use-- just press the emergency alert button on your pendant or wristband, and get help fast. It’s not that our products and systems are outdated. Alert1 emergency alert devices are waterproof, compatible with pacemakers, and connected to a 24/7 Command Center with modern telecommunications. But they’re also incredibly easy to use. With just the push of a button, you can immediately call for assistance. You won’t need to struggle through a long and complicated user manual or squint through tiny text on a small screen.

Most personal emergency response systems, including those offered from Alert1, use a three-step system. Those experiencing an emergency will only need to press the button on their device. This will automatically connect to an operator at an emergency response center, who will ask questions to better understand the situation. This operator will then assess your need and contact either an emergency service or a loved one. If your emergency leaves you unable to speak, the operator will still be able to help.

You may be hesitant to introduce new technology into your home, but medical alert systems from Alert1can save your life. You don't need a cell phone, you won’t need to log into an account, and you don’t need the internet. Best of all, you can get one of Alert1's easy-to-use systems at an affordable price. We make sure that our medical alert costs are consistently lower than the competition, so every senior can feel safe and protected.