Medical alert systems provide older adults who live alone with peace of mind. They help keep them safe and may prevent serious falls that could result in hospitalization or even death. 
 
Medical alarm Most systems include a wearable button that, when activated, connects directly with a 24-hour monitoring center where staff members can quickly contact either your emergency contacts or local authorities depending on the circumstances of the situation. 
Detection 
 
Research the products available when looking for a medical alert system - both yourself and loved ones alike. You can easily do this online through trusted retailers that sell devices with various accessories available. 
 
Medical alarm systems work by having a button or sensor that, when activated, connects a user directly with a monitoring center and from there a representative can communicate with them to assess what occurred and contact emergency services if necessary. 
 
CR conducted testing of two medical alert systems--in-home and on-the-go--and found they both had relatively low malfunction rates. The in-home systems, using a base receiver with wearable sensors connected, tend to be less mobile than on-the-go devices that connect through smartphones or smartwatches to the monitoring company's network. Both require subscription fees that typically aren't covered by Medicare or Medicaid but various charitable organizations may help cover some costs; monitored call center-monitored systems tend to cost more than unmonitored systems. 
Calling for Help 
 
Medical alert systems connect users with a response center that then contacts emergency services as needed - in this instance paramedics, fire departments or police may respond based on your location and health needs. Responders then receive user information such as medical details. 
 
Additionally, the response center can notify a list of trusted friends or family members (depending on what was decided upon at setup), which can be invaluable if someone needs help finding their phone or making calls themselves. 
 
There are various options for activating a medical alert device, from home systems that connect directly to landlines to cell-enabled devices with GPS tracking capabilities and voice-activated buttons (ideal for those living with arthritis or dexterity issues). Medical alert devices can be powerful tools in helping older adults remain independent for as long as possible; but before making your selection it's essential that you consider both your unique needs and budget before selecting one. 
Reaction Time 
 
Traditionally, medical alert systems conjure images of flashing buttons worn around the neck or wrist. While some models still resemble medical alert buttons, modern technology has enabled more subtle devices that offer advanced features like fall detection. 
 
When activated, devices typically contact a monitoring center which connects you with family, personal caregivers and emergency services as needed. Some models even feature GPS tracking so you can be monitored when moving about freely. 
 
Medicare Advantage plans and long-term care insurance policies often cover top-tier systems, enabling you to use tax-free funds from a health savings or flexible spending account for payments of both device and subscription fees. Sales promotions, membership discounts and promotional offers from many companies may also apply; some systems require one-time upfront equipment fees while others include them in monthly fees. 
Safety 
 
Medical alert devices can provide invaluable protection and comfort for those at risk of falling or who experience mobility challenges. According to AARP, one such woman pressed her medical alert button while making breakfast and quickly received assistance from the operator. 
 
 
Pressing a medical alert device's help button connects them with a 24/7 monitoring center staffed with trained professionals, who assess whether assistance is required and reach out either directly to their emergency contacts or 911 for them. 
 
fall detection devices Some medical alert systems provide additional features that enhance safety, such as accelerometer technology that automatically detects falls or being water resistant so they can be worn while showering. Selecting the ideal system may be difficult, but doing your research online and getting advice from healthcare professionals may make the selection process simpler. Look for companies offering free lockboxes to store spare keys as well as discounted rates on extra products such as more discrete wearable buttons or fall detection add-ons. 

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