Medical alert devices are just one of the great innovative technologies that have enabled many elderly, disabled, and chronically ill people to live in the comfort of their own home. Whether they live alone, or the other people they live with are gone for long periods, medical alert devices make their living situations safer.
From the many versions of medical alert systems, the most common is a medical alert button worn by the person on a necklace or bracelet. Theoretically, if the person falls or injures themselves and cannot get to the phone, they can press the button and the automated system will call their contact numbers. Most people chose to list 911 or other emergency number as one of the first numbers, followed by family or friends that are nearby.
Some systems allow for guide animals and other helper animals to be trained to press a button in the event you cannot. Pendant versions are very lightweight and hang or attach to a hypoallergenic chain or cord.
When consider whether you should invest in a medical alert system, keep these statistics in mind. Those who are over the age of 65 are more likely than any other age group to fall, with about one-third experiencing a fall in a year. Of these people, after the first hour that they have fallen and need help getting up, only 1 out 10 will not experience any lasting problems. Falls are not the only threat facing aging adults. With every day, their risk for a heart attack or stroke rises. Most people who receive immediate medical attention will not have many lasting effects.
Most people consider having a medical alert system largely beneficial to their wellbeing. Are you one of them?
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