How Do I Install Medical Alert System?

How Do I Install Medical Alert System?
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If you are reading this it is likely you have a family member or care for someone who is either elderly, infirm, or living alone and vulnerable. Medical alert systems are an absolute must for such people, and fortunately come in versions that cover all budgets. Being alone and housebound, and ill or injured, is a difficult thing to cope with. There is a lot to think about for those that care for such people.

What is a medical alert system, and how to you install one? The first question we will talk about in a moment, but as for installation if you have telephone line in the property or a broadband connection it simply plugs in. We’ll touch on that in a bit more detail later, but first let’s look at what these devices consist of, how they work, and who might need one.

What is a Medical Alert System?

If you are looking at using a life alert system for a family member or friend then you are concerned that you cannot be with them all the time. What you are looking for is something that will alert you to a problem, and that’s what we’re talking about here.

A medical alert system is actually a simple device – or collection of devices. You will get a main hub. This has a wireless connection within it that is accessed by a pendant with a button on it. The pendant is worn by the patient. The hub plugs straight into the phone system or broadband.

Now, let’s say the person you care for suddenly feels worse. They can press the button and it instantly sends a signal to the hub. The hub calls a help centre – this may be a local health clinic or more usually an operator centre with qualified dedicated staff. The operator who answers can set up a two-way conversation with the patient via the device, to assess the situation. Should they believe the emergency services are needed then they are alerted. If it’s a less urgent problem, they will contact you – the carer – or a designated neighbor to attend the patient.

Some systems will also directly message the carer, so they know there is a call in progress. The best medical alert systems also include a fall sensor that tells the emergency room that a patient has been inactive for an unusual time, thus instigating and investigation. These devices are lifesavers and are effective and efficient.

Who Needs a Medical Alert System?

As we mentioned above persons who may find such a system reassuring and useful are the elderly and infirm – especially if they live alone – or persons who are ill or injured and house-bound. Not only do they provide the wearer with reassurance but also the carers, family, and friends of the patient. Knowing that there is a qualified team waiting to take emergency calls is a great relief to all involved.

Can I Buy a Medical Alert System?

If you want to help your loved ones feel safe and secure – and everyone does – then you can buy an off the shelf medical alert system. However, we recommend you go to one of the established service providers that will not only supply you with the device itself but will also have a manned emergency room to handle all calls. This means that should a problem occur when you are not available, someone else can be notified to attend the patient. You will pay a charge for this service, but it will not be one that you will especially notice. It’s also one that will worth the added peace of mind alone.

What to Look for in a Medical Alert System

We have covered medical alert systems in some detail here so let’s have a quick recap. Look for one that features both a fall alarm and a button. Make sure there is a dedicated emergency team to take calls 24 hours a day. Also try and find one that messages your cell phone automatically when a call is in progress. There is plenty of choice so check out the established names in the field and talk to them about their services and you will find one that fits your budget.


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I am a pop culture and social media expert. Aside from writing about the latest news health, I also enjoy pop culture and Yoga. I have BA in American Cultural Studies and currently enrolled in a Mass-Media MA program. I like to spend my spring breaks volunteering overseas.

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