A medical alert system is one that detects potential hazards and notifies emergency medical personnel in the instance of danger. The average system is represented in the form of a pendant worn around a person’s neck. Some medical alarm systems are more modern and discreet with their design and, thus, take on the appeal of a smartwatch. The average person considers the elderly when the notion of medical alert systems arises. There are, however, a growing number of middle-aged and young adults who invest in the service as a way to feel safe during workout routines. In all frankness, an accident can happen anywhere and at anytime. It behooves the consumer, then, to understand the functionality as well as benefits of a medical alarm system before considering a subscription to a company that offers the service.
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How Does A Medical Alarm System Work?
The average medical alert system includes a personal device as well as a base station. A typical base station is the size of a vintage answering machine and often comes with WiFi capabilities. The Internet, of course, is so that representatives can locate the customer and dispatch emergency aid if necessary. As the personal device serves as the wireless transmitter to communicate location, the base station delivers such pertinent information to the call center.
Of course, having knowledge of your location is not the only thing that a medical alert system is good for. You can, after all, use the GPS locator on your phone to help family members and friends keep track of your whereabouts. A medical alert system takes things further by having a movement sensor that detects falls. It is the sensor that communicates to the provider that later leads to a welfare check.
The best medical alert system providers use the data given via GPS and contact the customer immediately upon the sight of potential danger. A simple note that you are okay is the only way to prevent emergency medical services from responding to your location to administer care.
Responders are, of course, EMT operators as well as the local 911 service. Some medical alert systems also let you name family members who you may want to notify of your need for emergency medical services. Many alert systems are progressively becoming more innovative, which means that they may double as smoke as well as carbon monoxide detectors. The most elite systems are waterproof and can identify when a customer’s home has flooded to the extent of occupants being in potential danger.
The Benefits of Medical Alert Systems
There are many advantages to having a medical alert system in your home. Affordability and privacy are definitely at the top of the list of benefits.
Many elderly individuals would prefer living in their homes over having to check into a nursing home. A medical alert system lets them maintain their independence and wards off the possibility of seniors losing their privacy to impersonal nursing homes.
Aside from independence, medical alert systems also provide rapid service that leads to peace of mind. The majority of providers have call centers that operate 24/7. Some of the representatives are even certified and trained to walk customers through what could be life-threatening situations. Having the assurance of help being a button push away is the best way to obtain peace of mind while handling daily activities.
The convenience of a medical alert system is another reason why the program is coveted among young, middle-aged, and mature adults. You only need to push a button to get a response from a customer service representative. Such ease beats the most advanced smartphone on the market that, despite all of its technological benefits, still requires you to at least unlock the screen before attempting to call for emergency services.
There are also more advanced medical alert systems that do more than monitor and detect falls. Some systems even have the ability to keep patients on track with medications to ensure that they are compliant with the doctor’s orders. Now, how is that for health on the go?
The Cost Of Medical Alarms
The average medical alert system comes with a subscription to a company that provides support. You will likely need to pay a deposit for the machine and personal device, which could be anywhere from $150 to $200. There is also the cost of a monthly subscription, which ranges anywhere from $30 to $90 every 30 days. Still, even with the added cost, medical alert systems are worth the money. You cannot pay for peace of mind.
A Short List of The Best Systems
1. Bay Alarm Medical In-Home Medical Alert
This system is easy to install and set up, which means that you can get to the business of feeling secure sooner. The Bay Alarm system also has an incredible support system when customer service representatives call immediately when danger is detected.
2. GreatCall Lively Mobile
Speedy response times and clear audio are what make GreatCall stand out from the competition. This alert system also comes with the benefit of portability and a mobile app that makes it that much more appealing to younger consumers.
3. MobileHelp Classic
Mature adults deserve excellent service and better functionality. MobileHelp Classic seeks to deliver both. This service offers quick response times and a base station that has buttons that are both large and colorful. MobileHelp also offers medical reminder services so that no doctor’s visits or medication times are missed.
4. Lifefone At Home Landline Medical Alert System
Lifefone is the ideal choice for homebodies. This system has a simple setup and even offers an additional pendant for your spouse along with excellent audio. You can get daily wellness calls as well as reminders regarding medical care with Lifefone.
5. Philips Lifeline GoSafe 2
You get pristine audio quality and excellent response times with Philips Lifeline GoSafe 2. This system uses several options for GPS locations so that you are never off the radar.
Conclusion
Medical alert systems are not just for the elderly. Anyone can take advantage of the service. The best route to take when choosing the system that may work best for you is to find a program that fits your lifestyle.