A good medical alert system can make the difference between you or a loved one receiving prompt medical assistance or not. Medical alert systems have advanced significantly in the last decade. You now have many more options to choose from and it’s possible to get one that is highly suitable to your needs. On the flip side, it’s also possible to accidentally choose one that has more or less than what you actually need. Here’s how to choose the best medical alert system for your or a loved one.
Figure Out What You Really Need
The first thing you should do is to think about what you’d be using the medical alert system for. For this, it’s helpful to consider what you’re worried about, because at its best, a medical alert system helps to allay worries. Common reasons people invest in a medical alert system include:
- Fear of falling alone and not being able to get up
- Fear of wandering off and not being able to find home
- Fear of breaking down in a vehicle
- Fear of a medical incident while alone
- Fear of slipping in the bath/shower
It’s important to carefully evaluate your specific needs so that you choose a medical alert system that caters to every one of them.
Learn About What’s Possible
Next, do some research and learn about the various options that are available with a medical alert system. You’ll find that there are many helpful and even surprising things that a medical alert system can do for you or a loved one. For instance, you can have caregivers or family members in the loop about a loved one’s status. You can have the medical alert system automatically call for help if a fall is detected. It’s also possible to have the medical alert system staff call for roadside assistance if something were to happen, such as running out of gas or getting a flat tire. Other things that are possible with a medical alert system include:
- Alerts for family members if the user strays off the premises
- Connection to registered nurse or doctor for consultation
- Calling of emergency response teams for medical emergencies
- Location tracking
- And more
Decide What Kind of Equipment Will Work Best
Another option that you’ll get with a medical alert system is the equipment type. Some medical alert systems offer a choice of equipment, while others offer only one kind or are limited in their options. Typically, you can expect to be able to get equipment such as a pendant device on a lanyard that’s worn around the neck like a necklace, a handheld device that can be tucked into a purse or pocket, a clip-on piece so the device can be worn on the belt or attached to a car visor, or a watch-like device that’s worn on the wrist. Deciding what kind of equipment works best will be dependent on the user. If it’s for you, it’s easier to figure out because you can consider your lifestyle. Are you an active person who needs something that won’t get in the way? Do you stay mostly at home? Do you take regular walks and need something that can easily be brought along?
Consider What Features You Need
You’ll also want to consider certain features that come on some medical alert systems. If one of your concerns for yourself or your loved one is a slip and fall in the shower, then you’ll definitely want a fully waterproof device. If your loved one has dementia, you’ll want something that doesn’t have to be taken on and off all the time, such as a pendant device. You’ll also want to get a medical alert system with the alert feature if the user strays away from home. If your loved one is arthritic, you’ll want a device with a large call button that doesn’t take a lot of strength to be depressed.
Think About Coverage, Service and Technology
Each of the medical alert systems uses different technology and offers variable coverage. Some of them have their own call centers located at different areas in the country. Some of them have higher trained staff that may even include medical personnel. Some of them offer GPS tracking in addition to wireless connectivity. Most—but not all—offer 24/7 monitoring by actual live staff. Is this something that is important to you? You’ll want to consider all of these factors before making your final choice of a medical alert system.
Make a Budget Consideration
Medical alert systems vary considerably in their costs. In addition, each one often has variable rates according to the features offered. You can expect to pay more for higher tiers of features and services. This is the part where you need to be very realistic about what you can afford. Bear in mind that this will be a long-term cost. And even though most medical alert systems don’t require you to sign a contract, you may be paying for the service for several years. How much extra can you afford to pay each month? You want to ensure that you choose a medical alert system that you’ll be easily able to afford so that you never have to experience service interruptions. It may be possible to get some kind of insurance coverage for the cost of a medical alert system, but this will depend on your insurance provider. It’s definitely worth a call to your insurance representative, though.
As you can see, there are lots of things to think about when you’re getting ready to choose a medical alert system. Take your time and go through each of these steps to ensure that you end up with the best one for your needs or the needs of your loved one.
