Why Seniors Should Consider Using Medical Alert Systems

Every August is designated National MedicAlert Awareness Month, and for good reason. Medical alert systems are life-saving technologies that have helped countless seniors obtain emergency medical care over the past several decades, all with the mere press of a button.

These devices require seniors to wear alert accessories, such as pins, bracelets, and necklaces. When a call button on the wearable device is pressed, an emergency signal is sent to a medical control center or personal contact, depending on the system. Either way, help soon arrives.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the main benefit of alert systems is to help users live more independently. They enable seniors to continue living in the comfort of their own homes and receive prompt emergency assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They also provide peace of mind for adult children and loving family members.

Other benefits include:

Variety Of Options

Medical alert systems have expanded greatly in recent years to accommodate healthy, active seniors in addition to traditional home-bound older adults. Tech savvy mobile alert services allow seniors to utilize a variety of customized safety features and options from virtually anywhere.

Affordability

Alert systems have become increasingly affordable, depending on user needs. The vast majority of prices now range between $30 and $90 per month. Certain long-term care insurance plans may even cover the costs.

User-Friendliness

Alert systems are specifically intended for seniors, disabled individuals and anyone else who might be at risk of a medical emergency. Simplicity is built into their design, which can impart confidence to older, less technology-inclined adults.

Added Features

Medical alert systems are ultimately meant to call for help during an emergency. Newer digital features provide a long list of benefits during day-to-day non-emergency use. For instance, GPS components not only allow for medical responders to find an elder person, but they can share a senior loved one’s routine whereabouts on an online map. Other optional features include:

• Digital monitoring of health vitals
• Daily electronic check-in services with care agents
• Movement trackers that digitally record physical health information

These are just a few reasons why seniors may consider investing in and using a medical alert system. If you have any questions about this or elder law related issues, do not hesitate to contact our office.