5 Reasons Why Seniors Should Wear a Medical Alert Device

A medical alert device is a tool that ensures the safety of seniors, especially those living independently. It’s connected to a monitoring system with a trained operator who can directly communicate with the patient. If a senior needs help, he can push a button and talk to the operator. One out of three seniors experience a fall, so getting a medical alert device can support their health and safety.

Around the Clock Protection

Children of elderly parents want to assist as much as possible. However, they can’t always be there for their loved ones. With medical alert devices, medical help is ensured.

Here are five reasons why seniors should wear a medical alert device:

1. Falls can seriously affect a senior’s health

Common fractures after a fall affect the spine, hip, pelvis, leg, arms, and ankles. When not attended to right away, seniors may suffer hip fractures, head traumas, lacerations and other serious medical conditions. Some of these seniors may become disabled, require extensive rehabilitation, have a difficult time recovering. They may even spend the rest of their lives in nursing homes as a result. It could significantly affect their health and their quality of life. These implications can be avoided with a senior alert system that alerts medical professionals in the event of a fall. A push of a button is all it takes for help to arrive.

2. Time is critical after a fall injury

About 80 percent of seniors who are 90 years old and above can’t get up after a fall. Timely medical attention can save many lives. When a fall happens, it’s crucial to get medical attention immediately, or at least in the first hour to prevent further injuries. If seniors don’t get help after two or three hours, hospitalization may be required as the injuries become aggravated. After four to five hours without help, hospitalization is certain. Depending on the injury, hospitalization could last up to two weeks. 90 percent of those who didn’t receive medical attention after six hours will have to live in a nursing home. When seniors still aren’t attended to after 12 hours, serious health conditions could emerge. Recovery may be difficult, and they may need to spend weeks or months in the hospital. With a medical alert device, your loved ones are sure to get medical attention immediately.

3. Medical alert operators have the senior’s medical history on file and will communicate with first responders

When a senior seeking medical help pushes the button, a senior alert system operator is alerted so he can dispatch a medical team to assist. Operators have the medical files of each patient to help them alert the right medical staff members, in addition to family members. There may be cases where a senior is unable to push a button for help. In this case, devices with a fall detection feature will be beneficial. These devices can detect a fall when a senior is unable request help.

4. It allows seniors to keep living in their own home for as long as possible

Medical alert devices connect to an 24/7 emergency senior alert system. Most of the devices are waterproof and come in the form of either a necklace pendant or a bracelet. When a senior presses a button, they can talk to a professional operator who asks if something is wrong. Operators can then contact medical professionals or family members. This direct access to help allows seniors the ability to live independently while reaching emergency help when needed. The device provides relief to seniors who live alone, and enables them to live in their home without worry. They know someone is out there always ready to help when they need medical attention.

5. Caregivers need peace of mind

It’s not easy to care for a senior. You’ll face several challenges that may affect you emotionally. With a medical alert device that assures 24/7 protection, caregivers will have peace of mind and fewer worries. Caregivers need rest too, so they can’t be with seniors around the clock. With a senior alert system, they can sleep well knowing that their loved ones are protected.

Choosing the Right Medical Alert Device

Do make sure the alert device is user-friendly. Your loved one shouldn’t have a challenging time to figure out how to use the device. Also, it would be best if it has a battery back-up just in case the power goes out. It should be able to still run for at least 8 hours or until the power is back up. A fall detection feature in a device is also beneficial just in case your loved ones won’t be able to push a button. Getting a waterproof alert device is necessary to ensure your elderly parents are getting help even if they’re in the bathroom, where many falls occur.

Medical alert devices promote senior safety (AARP recommends medical alert systems). If you still haven’t considered getting one for your elderly parent or loved one, now’s the time to acquire one for 24/7 protection.