Health & Medical Health Care

A Medical Alert System Gives Seniors Freedom

Independence. It's something all of us cherish, the capability to be able to care for ourselves, make our own decisions, and live where and how we choose. But as we age, sometimes declining health can challenge our independence, which makes it difficult to live the life we desire. Fortunately for those of use who cherish our independence, but have health issues, there are emergency alert systems.

Basically, these systems are made to allow users to contact someone for help, even if they can't reach the phone. By pushing a button on a pendant, that is usually waterproof, a signal goes out and alerts somebody that an emergency has happened, and help is needed immediately. Now, there's two main different kinds of systems, and each works a little different.

Probably the most well known kind of emergency alert system is the kind which is monitored. With this type of system, once the emergency pendant is activated, a signal goes to a response center, where trained professionals are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Once they receive a signal, they then contact the emergency responders you have selected ahead of time.

So let's say you selected your responders in advance, placing your son at the top of the list, then your sister, after which 911. In the event you have an emergency and cannot reach the phone, once you press the button on your pendant, the response center contacts your son. If he doesn't answer, they will then call your sister, and then 911 if she doesn't answer.

Unmonitored emergency alert systems, like a medipendant work much in the same way, but they aren't as well known as monitored systems. Unmonitored systems hook into your phone line, and then automatically starts calling your pre-programmed emergency contacts when the emergency pendant is activated. If the first responder doesn't answer, the system goes down the list until someone does.

So let's take another look at the same situation we used when talking about monitored systems. With the unmonitored system, when you press the button on your pendant, the response system receives a signal and begins calling your emergency numbers. If your son picks up, he will hear a recorded message stating you have an emergency. He then calls you back right away, and the system triggers a microphone, to enable you to let him know what is happening.

There are several companies that offer monitored medical alarms for seniors and those with health conditions, and each company has its own procedures and equipment. This is also true of un-monitored alert systems - the specific working details are going to be a bit different for each model.

For this reason, it's important to do your research before selecting a medical alert system, so that you select one that is right for the needs you have. Whichever type best suits your needs though, either one can help you keep your independence, even if health issues are a factor.


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