Weighing the Pros and Cons of Emergency Alert Systems for Seniors

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Emergency Alert Systems for Seniors
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Emergency alert systems serve as critical life-saving equipment that can help senior citizens during vulnerable times. These tools can be valuable during high-stress situations such as household accidents, sudden illness, or falls at home.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death of many seniors above the age of 65. During a medical emergency, timely responses from medical professionals help promote full recoveries. To ensure the speedy arrival of medical assistance, equip your elderly loved ones with an emergency alert system designed specifically for senior citizens.

However, before purchasing this invaluable gadget, weigh its potential pros and cons to make an informed decision. Here are the key benefits and drawbacks of medical emergency alerts for seniors.

The pros of emergency alert systems

Just like their name suggests, emergency alert systems like those from Lively Direct give you the support you need, when you need it. These systems are monitored around the clock to ensure no emergency goes unnoticed.

Furthermore, these emergency alert systems dispatch responders, designated family members, police officers, fire personnel, or even an ambulance almost immediately. With a quick response time, you can guarantee your elderly loved ones receive the help they need, even if it’s not medically-related.

Affordable

In the recent past, emergency alert systems were a luxury that only a few people could afford. Nowadays, anyone can access these life-saving systems. This newfound affordability is all thanks to technological advancements, which have led to the development of more advanced devices and a wide variety of options.

In extenuating circumstances, insurance can help cover the costs of an emergency alert system for seniors. You can check in with your insurance provider to determine what coverage they offer under your current plan. Don’t forget to inquire about contract fees and discounts, if they apply.

Easy-to-use

Most of these emergency alert systems are easy-to-use, regardless of the type you choose. These emergency alert systems are as simple as pulling a string, using a cell phone, or pushing a button.

When shopping for an emergency alert system, remember that these wearable systems are the most convenient option, as you won’t have to worry about misplacing them or forgetting them in another room. All you’ll need to do is activate your alert system and connect with emergency personnel to get the help you need.

Several options

Initially, emergency alert systems had limited options. Worst of all, the brains behind these medical alert systems didn’t develop this technology with active senior citizens requiring urgent help in mind.

However, technological innovations have facilitated the design of various options tailored to every user’s unique needs. These options may include bracelets and necklaces, which you can utilize on-the-go or while swimming. Some models incorporate GPS for easy tracking, while others are more discrete and resemble activity monitors.

Provides peace of mind

It’s common for elders to develop all-consuming fear when navigating their day-to-day lives, i.e., the fear of falling. Continually worrying about life-altering falls and spills can exhaust senior citizens and cause their confidence to plummet. Unfortunately, when elderly folks limit their mobility, there’s a high likelihood of declining balance.

Enhances independence

Many senior citizens relocate to retirement homes due to the fear of living at home alone without emergency care access. In most cases, these senior citizens often feel concerned about what will happen if they fall or experience a heart attack. Fortunately, emergency alert systems address these concerns, leaving the seniors feeling confident about staying at home.

If you’re hoping to maintain your independent lifestyle and guarantee you can receive medical attention as soon as possible, consider purchasing an emergency alert system. Although the fear of falling or suffering from a heart attack can restrict your daily activities, seniors in possession of an emergency alert system can exercise, bathe, and run errands without experiencing debilitating anxiety.

Cons of emergency alert systems

As opposed to mobile alert systems, home-based systems require a wearable device to plug-in directly or connect to a central system, meaning that leaving home can potentially put the equipment out-of-range and, thereby, endanger the senior citizen in question.

Human error

Seniors are expected to wear their alert systems throughout the day for the technology to offer a reliable and efficient safety net. However, some seniors may forget or feel embarrassed to wear these devices. Other seniors may find the alert tools uncomfortable and may avoid wearing them deliberately. Either way, it’s crucial to address these issues to avert potential health complications.

False alarms

False alarms are among the most common challenges of emergency alert systems. Unintentionally pressing a medical emergency alert button can result in a false alarm. Similarly, these malfunctions can happen when fall sensors detect a fall-like signal from the user or when an individual with dementia accidentally presses the call button.

In summary

Despite these emergency alert systems downsides, these devices can save thousands of high-risk senior citizens’ lives. If you can’t be physically present to supervise your elderly loved one while they shower, complete daily chores, or shop at the grocery store, purchase an emergency alert system for added peace of mind.


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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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