Nowadays, there is a wide range of different medical alert systems that are available for seniors. Using a medical alert system maximizes your safety while you’re at home or on the go.
Safety becomes paramount when you reach older age. Medical alert systems are one of the most effective ways to keep you safe and healthy while also maintaining your independence.
What Features Should You Look Out For in a Medical Alert System?
Because there are so many different brands and models available, it can be difficult to determine which medical alert system is the most suitable for your needs. It’s important to find a system that you find easy to use and possesses all of the features that you need.
For example, some medical alert systems are built with 24/7 monitoring features, while others are on monitored. Many medical alert systems have health trackers that monitor your vital signs but this isn’t a feature in every system.
Below, we are going to cover three features to look out for in a medical alert system so that you can easily find the most suitable option. Hopefully, by the end of this article, you will know exactly what you’re looking for when you are shopping around for a new medical alert system as a senior.
1. Easy to use
As you enter your senior years, you might start to notice your physical health begins to decline. There isn’t much that you can do to prevent the natural aging process. However, you can use the latest and greatest smart devices to your advantage.
A great medical alert system should be easy to navigate and simple to use. It should also be easy to see, even if you have reduced vision. Find a system that has a large face so that you aren’t struggling to read the text or numbers on the screen.
Many medical systems also use a lightweight help button that is easy to press, even for those with limited hand and finger strength. You should be able to attach your alert system to your clothing or carry it in your bag without feeling bulky and heavy.
Technology isn’t always easy to use, especially if you’re an older adult who hasn’t grown up with smart devices. Medical alert systems can be complicated to use if you’re not familiar with the latest technology inventions so it’s important to find a system that you can get your head around.
If you experience any complications when using your device, there should be a number in your handbook to call the customer support team. The expert technicians will help you troubleshoot the problem and find a resolution.
2. GPS Tracking
Some medical alert systems have 24/7 GPS tracking that is perfect for older adults. Relatives can track the activity and location of their senior loved ones to ensure that they are safe at all times.
GPS tracking systems can also have in-built fall detection. If you’re wearing an alert system on your clothing and you fall over and remain unresponsive for several minutes, it will automatically send an alert to an emergency contact. Some models will also be able to put the user through to a helpline for seniors in Canada or whichever country they reside in order to provide reassurance or direct communication with the emergency services.
Your emergency contact can be a family member or emergency services. When the medical alert system signals to them that you need help, it will also send your location so they know exactly where to find you.
Many advanced medical alert systems don’t need to be connected to a smartphone to provide 24/7 monitoring. They have their own cellular connection. This is helpful for seniors who don’t own a phone or often forget to bring it out with them when they leave the house.
3. Health Trackers
As you get older, you’re at an increased risk of health-related issues. For example, you might find that your joints ache a little more or you get out of breath more easily than you once did.
With advanced medical alert systems, you can track your vital signs to keep a close eye on your health. Your vital signs are key indicators of what’s going on inside your body and they reflect the state of your health and well-being.
Choosing an alert system with built-in health trackers enables you to monitor your heart rate, internal body temperature, and blood oxygen saturation levels. If you notice a significant change in one of your vital signs, you can alert your relatives or your doctor to get treatment if you need it.
If you have found that your sleep has deteriorated since you reached senior age, monitoring your sleep can be helpful. Luckily, many of the latest medical alert systems possess sleep-tracking features so you can visualize your sleep patterns and identify where your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle lies.
