Medical alert bracelets are lightweight, watch-style panic buttons that allow you to call for help at any time, even if you’re unable to reach a phone. When you activate the help button, the medical alert system automatically dials a 24/7 emergency call center, and you’ll be able to speak with an operator through a speakerphone on the medical alert bracelet base unit. The operator will assess the situation and dispatch a family member, neighbor or first responders to your home as needed.
To help you decide if a medical alert bracelet is right for you, we’ve compiled the most common reasons why people sign up for a monitored personal emergency response system service.
You Want to Remain Independent
The number one reason why seniors and people living with disabilities sign up for a medical alert service is to maintain their independence.
Wearing a medical alert bracelet can provide you with added security and peace of mind, and it can also make your loved ones feel more comfortable with your choice to remain in your own home. Knowing you can connect with a trained emergency operator by simply pressing a button on your wrist can be invaluable for anyone, at any age.
You’re Worried About Falling
If you’re aged 65 or older, you have a greater than one in four chance of experiencing a sudden fall. If you do suffer a fall, your risk of falling again doubles.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls frequently cause serious injuries, such as hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries, that can make it impossible to reach a phone to call for help. Although wearing a medical alert bracelet can’t keep you from falling, it can ensure that you’ll always be able to call for assistance, which can make all the difference in an emergency situation.
You Live With a Chronic Medical Condition
Many common medical conditions such as Type 2 diabetes can cause symptoms that may impact your balance and coordination, and the same is true for many medications used to treat chronic illnesses.
Medical professionals often recommend medical alert bracelets for patients who live with diseases that could increase the chances of needing emergency assistance, either from first responders or a neighbor, caregiver or family member.
If you take medications that could make you feel dizzy or tired, or you have an ongoing medical condition, it might be time to consider getting a medical alert bracelet.
You’re Recovering From an Illness, Injury or Surgery
While many medical alert bracelet users plan on wearing their panic button as long as they remain in their own home, personal emergency response systems can also be exceptionally useful for anyone who is recovering from a serious illness, injury or major operation.
Signing up for a medical alert bracelet can take pressure off your caregivers who may be struggling to provide you with the care you need during your recovery. Your loved ones can rest easy knowing that you have the tools you need to call for help at any time, and you can recuperate in the comfort of your own home without compromising your safety.
Your Loved Ones Are Worried About You
It’s natural for your loved ones to worry about you, especially if they don’t live nearby or they’re unable to respond quickly should you need help.
A medical alert bracelet can make those who are closest to you feel confident that you’ll always be able to connect with a caring, professional call center operator who can dispatch life-saving assistance. These wearable, lightweight devices can also be used to call for help in case of a house fire, burglary or other urgent, non-medical emergency situation when you simply can’t reach a telephone.
If any of the above scenarios sounds familiar, you might want to consider getting a medical alert bracelet. Not only are medical alert systems affordable and user-friendly, but these discrete, lightweight devices can enhance your safety and independence by giving you an easy way to call for help at any time, from anywhere in your home.
