A medical alert system facilitates quick access to medical assistance in case of an emergency. The devices are useful for the elderly and persons with disability. They are simple hardware devices that come in various forms such as bracelets, pendants, and anklets. Therefore, medical alert devices are comfortable to wear. The gadgets have inbuilt software that allows communication to paramedics by merely pushing a button. Alert systems can also help in case of a break-in at your home.
Who should have medical alert systems?
Emergency response systems are ideal for seniors and persons with disability. They need a fast and easy means to contact an emergency service in case of a life-threatening issue or a fall. You need a medical alert system if you are at an elevated risk of falling at home, and you are unable to recover from the fall by yourself. The danger of falling is serious if you find it difficult to walk without assistance or you have a past injury. If you are a senior living alone, you need to start protecting your life with a medical alert system.
8 Dangers of not having a medical alert system for the elderly:
1. You risk delayed response when medication cause side effects
Medication is useful and necessary when dealing with health issues. However, some medication can have side effects. You need to comprehend how your medicines affect your routine activities. For example, prescriptions that make your body feel dizzy expose you to the risk of falling. Such drugs affect your coordination and balance making normal activities such as using the stairs hazardous. Let your doctor elaborate all the possible side effect of your prescription and couple this with a medical alert system for your safety at home.
2. You risk getting lost
Some medical alert systems have a GPS capable of tracking locations. If you drive or go out frequently, you can benefit from a medical gadget with a GPS. Your family and an emergency response team can monitor your activity or movement from a remote location. This monitoring is essential in case of an emergency. If you have a problem finding your way back, you need not worry; your family can easily find your location and see you.
3. Prescription overdose
As you age, you are likely to take more prescription drugs, and this comes with the risk of accidental overdose. Anyone at any age can easily forget that they took their prescription, especially when such prescription is part of your routine. You end up taking a second pill. The problem aggravates when you suffer from conditions (such as dementia) that lead to forgetfulness. Such conditions may have you take an extra dose whenever you cannot remember taking your treatment. If the dose is three times a day, you can end up taking six doses. A medical alert system reminds you when to take your drugs, so you depend on it to avoid an overdose.
4. You risk not getting timely help
If you reside away from close friends and family, chances are you have no one to regularly check on you or respond promptly when you need aid. The emergency alert system is useful here. If you fall or experience a serious medical problem, you press a button on your bracelet or wrist device. The action will connect you a medical response team or call for an ambulance.
5. Symptoms you fail to see
A spouse or other home resident can quickly notice changes that you cannot see. You may have signs that you fail to notice or sometimes brush off. When living alone, you may fail to notice when serious health issues are approaching. Someone living with you may notice health changes that you fail to see such as behavioral and dietary changes. A medical alert system can monitor your vitals and save your life.
6. You may miss your prescription
Sometimes aging can cause memory loss. You may forget to take your pills at the right time. Medical devices can alert you when to take your medicine. The gadgets also notify your loved ones on your progress. The sensor can attach to the pill dispenser, and upon responding to the reminder on a wrist gadget, the sensor sends a notification to the remote care provider. The caregiver can also remind you just in case you ignore the device.
7. You risk suffering from anxiety
As you age, you become aware of the limitation associated with aging. You worry about injuring yourself, and if these thoughts go uncontrolled, you may end up in a state of anxiety. Anxiety symptoms tend to aggravate when you live alone and lack someone to talk to regularly. Medical alert technology will ensure you have peace of mind knowing you can speak with an expert at any time of night or day. You feel more comfortable living independently, and your family is at peace.
8. Your loved ones will lack peace of mind
A senior medical alert system allows peace of mind for your children, loved ones and yourself. Your loved ones will have constant thoughts concerning your wellbeing if you live alone and far from them. You will also have concerns about their safety. With the medical system, they can quickly know how you are doing, communicate, assess your health, and you also benefit from knowing the same about your family. The system allows them their space while you focus on your independent life.
Regardless of age, everyone values independence. You want to have things your way, and this is possible when living in your home. However, you still want to remain safe and get a quick emergency response. With a personal emergency response system, you can lead an independent life. You are at peace knowing that you can access the right help any time you need it; support is a button press away.
