Alert Pendants for Seniors: Choosing the Best Device for Emergency Help

According to an article posted by The Senior List, about 1 in 3 Americans over the age of 65 have had a fall accident in the past year, but only 1 in 10 use a medical alert system.

Falls and other accidents can be very dangerous for seniors. As such, senior alert systems can be very beneficial. They help improve safety, independence, and peace of mind.

If you're looking for emergency help devices for the elderly, it can be hard to know what to go with. In this guide, we'll explain how you can decide between the best alert pendants for seniors. Keep reading for more.

Key Features to Consider

Medical alert systems can vary, so when looking at different medical alert necklaces, make sure you understand what features they offer. There are some key capabilities that you should look for.

24/7 Monitoring

You never know when an accident is going to happen. You should look for a device that offers around-the-clock monitoring to help maintain safety at all times.

Ease of Use

Any alert pendants should be easy to use. Large buttons can make things much easier for the elderly, especially if they have limited mobility or impaired vision.

Range

Senior safety tech needs to be active at all times, so any device with a base system should have a suitable range. Some also include GPS tracking, which may be a very useful feature depending on the person using it and how often they're away from home.

Automatic Fall Detection

Look out for fall detection pendants. These can automatically detect if the user falls, sending out an alert even if they haven't pressed the help button.

Battery Life and Backup

It's important to have an idea of the expected battery life of any alert pendant. A longer battery life is typically better as it will last longer, and there's less of a worry during power outages.

Water Resistance

Water resistance may not seem essential, but wet floors in a bathroom can make falls more likely. A waterproof device won't be damaged in a wet room which can be very beneficial.

Two-way Communication

Clear two-way communication can be very helpful. It will help ensure the user can get quick assistance whenever they need it.

Evaluating Needs and Preferences

With the various alert pendant options on the market, it's important to understand that no single model is the best. Ultimately, it depends on the user's needs. Here are some questions to think about when deciding.

Where Will It Mostly Be Used?

Some seniors spend most of their time at home, while others prefer to get out and about. Some systems are better suited for people who are a bit more active, so think about this when looking at different options.

Does the User Have Any Medical Conditions That Require Special Features?

There are all kinds of conditions that can affect seniors, such as:

• Epilepsy
• Heart conditions
• Diabetes

Someone with any such conditions could be at more risk. It can be beneficial to look for an alert pendant that has additional health monitoring capabilities.

Is the User Tech-Savvy?

While all alert pendants are intended for easy use, some devices are more complicated than others. Think about how tech-savvy the user is when looking at different pendants. Make sure you get one that you're confident they'll be capable of using without any issues.

What's the Budget?

The cost of different alert devices can vary significantly. You should make sure you know the budget when you start looking so you can quickly narrow things down. Typically, the more a device costs, the better it will be, but a cheaper device may still offer everything you need.

Bear in mind that you're not just looking at the initial cost. You also need to consider any ongoing monthly fees for medical alert monitoring services.

Recommendations for Top Medical Alert Pendants for Seniors

If you haven't looked into medical alert systems before, it can be a bit overwhelming. There are some brands that have established strong reputations, so you may want to start by looking at these.

Lively Mobile Plus

Lively Mobile Plus is well known for offering devices with excellent fall detection capabilities. They feature nationwide GPS coverage, making them a great choice for people who get around a lot. They're also known for reliability, which can offer peace of mind.

Lifeline

Lifeline offers quality alert pendants as well as various other alert devices. They have a strong reputation for reliability and ease of use.

Bay Alarm Medical

If you're looking for an affordable option, Bay Alarm Medical is one of the best brands. Their devices offer various features such as fall detection, water resistance, and long battery life.

Medical Guardian

Medical Guardian is another brand that produces various reliable alert devices. They're also known for providing exceptional customer service, and they offer both in-home and on-the-go medical monitoring.

Tips for Using a Medical Alert System

After finding the right medical alert pendant, make sure you understand how to use it correctly. These tips will help you get the most out of it.

Test It Regularly

An accident can happen when you least expect it. You should test any medical alert systems regularly (ideally once a month) to make sure they're functioning properly.

Wear It Consistently

An alert pendant is only useful when you're wearing it. Try to get into the habit of wearing it at all times.

Update Your Information

Make sure your personal and medical information is always up to date. This information is vital for responders so they can ensure you get the assistance you need.

Educate Family and Caregivers

Educate your family and caregivers about your alert pendant and how it works. They may be able to help you act quickly during an emergency.

Health and Safety for Seniors

Alert pendants for seniors can help ensure those who need extra help can get it in an emergency. For the elderly, living alone may not be ideal, and senior living communities are often a great solution.