Assisted living facilities primarily help residents with non-medical needs. Although minor and infrequent medical services, such as first-aid for a wound, can sometimes be met on-site by nurses. These communities may sometimes also be called ALFs, residential care facilities, retirement homes, or long-term care facilities.
The financial options available to help pay for senior care is dependent on, among other things, the type of care that is required. If you are just beginning the research process on how to pay for long-term care, it is helpful to have an idea about the type of care you or your loved one currently requires, as well as to anticipate future needs. In addition, it is important to be familiar with the associated eldercare terminology.
Can using home care technology help your family save money caring for an aging loved one? The answer is most certainly “Yes”. Our goal is not to provide a comprehensive list, but rather to make sense of those that are available on the market today and can reduce the care hours required by elderly persons. As such, they can reduce a family’s out-of-pocket care costs or reduce the hours they spend providing care themselves.
Medicare Advantage (Part C), a privately offered alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A and B), has grown in popularity over the years. Despite the growing popularity of Medicare Advantage, some seniors face obstacles that prevent them from truly understanding how it works and who it benefits. Common mistakes about Medicare Advantage include misunderstanding its differences from Original Medicare, getting it confused with other forms of private Medicare insurance (like Medigap or Part D), or not understanding how to look up or evaluate plans.
Living alone can be tough for anyone, but it’s especially difficult for retired seniors who don’t have many opportunities to leave the house. Spending the night alone is particularly stressful, as many older adults fear crime and worry they won’t be able to get help when they need it. As a result, loneliness, isolation and fear often come together to reduce a senior’s sense of security and make it more difficult to remain at home.
A strong sense of security has been linked to better health outcomes and improved quality of life for older adults, making it critical for family members, friends and neighbors to look for ways to help their older loved ones feel safe and protected. Installing a home security system is one way to accomplish this goal, as each system has a variety of features to help users deter unwanted guests, prevent falls and reduce the risk of crime.
After reading this guide, you’ll understand how home security systems help older adults maintain their sense of security and independence. The guide also includes recommendations for DIY, self-monitored and professionally monitored systems.
What Are Home Security Systems, and How Do They Work?
Home security systems make it possible to control access to a senior’s home, increasing safety. These systems contain many components, such as motion sensors, door and window alarms, glass-break sensors, security cameras and video doorbells. Modern security systems may even include automated lights, smart thermostats and other devices, giving seniors more control over their environment.
Some of the common components of a comprehensive home security system include:
Window alarms: A window alarm sends out an alert any time someone opens a window while a security system is armed. If the system is monitored, the monitoring center also receives an alert, making it easier for them to dispatch emergency services..
Door alarms: Like window alarms, door alarms alert household members whenever a door opens while a security system is armed.
Motion sensors: A motion sensor goes off any time there’s movement in the monitored area, making it easier to detect intruders.
Automated lights: In the United States, older adults sustain about 36 million falls per year. To reduce their risk of falling, many seniors have security systems with automated lights, which turn on and off without a user having to get out of bed or stand up from a seated position.
Automated locks: An automated lock makes it possible to lock or unlock a door without using a key.
Cameras: When placed in strategic locations, cameras give an older adult a bird’s-eye view of what’s going on around their home. Indoor cameras also make it easier for loved ones to monitor an older adult.
Video doorbells: A video doorbell uses a camera and Wi-Fi to alert a senior when someone is approaching their home.
Medical alert devices: Medical alert devices make it easier for seniors to get help in an emergency. Some devices connect users with their loved ones, while others are connected to a monitoring center, providing quick access to police, fire and ambulance services.
Legal Considerations When Placing a Home Security System
Home security systems are helpful, but it’s important to balance privacy concerns with the need for enhanced safety. As a result, there are some legal issues to consider before installing one.
Privacy Inside the Home
It’s against the law to record someone without their consent in places where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. That includes bedrooms and bathrooms. Therefore, it’s important to ask a senior for consent before placing cameras in their home.
Laws Regarding Audio/Video Recording
The United States has a federal law known as the Federal Wiretap Act that prohibits recording conversations of the participants if those conversations are believed to be private. Video recording has fewer restrictions, making it easier to protect older adults. For example, several courts have ruled that it’s acceptable to make video recordings of elder care professionals without obtaining their consent beforehand.
Regulations Governing the Use of Security Systems in Senior Living Communities
Some seniors have private apartments at assisted living facilities or independent living complexes. If a senior lives alone in one of these units, it’s legal to install a video camera as long as they give their consent. Some states also permit family members to install surveillance equipment in a loved one’s nursing home room or assisted living unit.
Why Should Seniors Get a Home Security System?
Anyone can benefit from having a home security system, but these systems are especially beneficial for seniors. In some cases, a home security system makes the difference between staying at home and having to move to a nursing home, assisted living community or other senior living facility. Here are a few reasons to consider installing a security system in an older loved one’s home.
Crime Prevention
Older adults are more vulnerable to crimes that cause financial harm. For example, some seniors are the victims of financial abuse, which is when someone misuses or mismanages an older person’s assets.
This type of abuse takes many forms:
Stealing cash from a senior’s home
Forging an older adult’s signature on a check
Opening bank accounts or credit cards in a senior’s name
Using a senior’s cash, checks or credit cards without their permission
Charging an older adult for products or services they never received
Seniors living alone may also worry about the potential for vandalism, theft, burglary and other crimes.
Many security companies provide window decals or yard signs to alert other people that a home is protected by one of their systems. Displaying one of these items may deter someone from committing a crime on the property, protecting a senior’s personal safety. If a crime does occur, having surveillance footage may make it easier to identify and prosecute the perpetrator.
Assistance During Medical Emergencies
When a senior lives alone, there’s always some concern that they’ll have a medical emergency that’s serious enough to prevent them from calling for help. Falls are especially common, increasing the risk of hip fractures, head injuries and other serious complications. Home security systems make it easier for loved ones to monitor their older family members, reducing the amount of time it takes for a senior to get help in the event of an emergency.
Help with Wandering Behavior
For seniors with dementia, wandering is a common side effect. Some people get confused about where they are, causing them to leave their homes in search of familiar people or places. In fact, about 60% of seniors with Alzheimer’s disease will wander at least once.
Installing a home security system helps with wandering because it gives loved ones an easy way to keep track of seniors. If a family member has access to system alerts, they’ll know as soon as an older adult opens the front door. Motion detectors make it possible to determine if a loved one is on the porch, on the sidewalk or somewhere else on the property.
Increased Efficiency
Smart thermostats eliminate the need for an older adult to get up every time they want to adjust the temperature, reducing the risk of falls. These thermostats also increase energy efficiency by giving users more control over their heating and cooling settings. Some models even allow users to create custom settings for each room.
Types of Home Security Systems
“Home security system” is a broad term. Each type of system has different features, giving users access to a variety of services and benefits. The options include do-it-yourself or professional installation, professional monitoring versus self-monitoring and cellular or Wi-Fi versus landline security systems.
DIY Installation vs. Professionally Installed Systems
DIY installation refers to purchasing a home security system and installing it yourself — or having a friend or family member install it for you. A professionally installed system must be set up by a representative from a home security company. The main difference between the two is that professional installation saves you time. If you’re on a budget, however, DIY installation is the more affordable option.
DIY INSTALLATION
Pros
Less expensive
Ability to start with just a few components and then add more as your budget allows
Easy to move system components from one place to another
Cons
May be difficult for users who aren’t tech-savvy
Individual components may have their own warranties, but you won’t get one warranty to cover the whole system
PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION
Pros
Complete system warranty available
Installation service also has a warranty or guarantee in case there are any problems
Completely customized to your home
Cons
More expensive than DIY installation
May require the installer to drill into the walls
Difficult to move system components since they’re typically affixed to walls and other structures
Professionally Monitored vs. Self-Monitored Systems
With a self-monitoring system, the user is responsible for watching the cameras, listening for alerts and summoning help in an emergency. Professionally monitored systems are connected to a monitoring center. Trained agents monitor each system 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, ensuring that a senior has access to assistance if an emergency occurs.
SELF-MONITORED
Pros
No additional cost
More flexibility
No penalties for false alarms
Cons
No access to a trained professional in the event of an emergency
Older users may have difficulty seeing camera screens or hearing audio alerts
PROFESSIONAL MONITORED
Pros
Trained agent available 24/7
Quick access to fire, police and medical services
Monitoring available, even when the user isn’t home
Emergency services may respond faster when the call comes from a trained professional
Cons
Monthly fees
Monitoring company can’t guarantee that emergency services will respond within a certain amount of time
No guarantee that the monitoring service will work as advertised
Cellular/Wi-Fi vs. Landline Home Security Systems
Cellular security systems use a customer’s cellular signal to connect to the monitoring center, while Wi-Fi systems use wireless internet. A third option is a landline security system, which connects to the monitoring center via a landline telephone. One of the main differences between a cellular or Wi-Fi system and a landline system is that landline alerts take a little more time to reach the monitoring service.
Cellular/Wi-Fi
Pros
Easier to install
Lower installation costs
More secure
Compatible with smart thermostats and other advanced system components
Cons
Stops working in the event of an internet or cellular network outage
Higher monitoring costs
Landline
Pros
Works anywhere that has landline telephone service
Costs less to monitor than a cellular or Wi-Fi system
Cons
May require professional installation
Doesn’t work if there’s a service disruption
Alerts take more time to reach the monitoring center
The Best Professionally Installed Home Security Systems
Of all the professionally installed home security systems on the market, ADT, SimpliSafe and Xfinity offer the best options for seniors. Use the table below to compare prices before reading more about each system.
With over 140 years in business, ADT is one of the most trusted names in home security. Besides its rock-solid reputation, ADT offers some of the most innovative home security devices and features, including best-in-class 24/7 monitoring and smart home integration. The ADT Video & Smart Home Package enables customers to access their ADT systems via mobile and receive free devices, including a doorbell and camera. However, ADT has high monthly monitoring costs and a 3-year contract lock.
Pros
Includes 15 components for comprehensive coverage
Digital panel makes it easy to operate
Multiple finishes available for the smart door locks
Compatible with smart home products from Nest, Google and other companies
Cons
High monthly monitoring cost
Early termination fees if canceling before the end of a contract
SimpliSafe has surged in popularity due to its affordable home security equipment. The company lets you customize your home security kit with options for unmonitored, self-monitoring, and professional monitoring. Alternatively, pre-configured kits, such as the base The Foundation package with a base station, an indoor camera, and sensors, are also available. In addition, SimpliSafe charges one of the lowest professional monitoring fees, and it doesn’t lock you into a long-term contract.
Pros
Ideal for small apartments or units in senior living communities
Low monthly monitoring fees
No contracts
Inexpensive installation fee
Cons
System may disconnect itself from the monitoring center without warning
Relies on cellular service, which may lead to poor system performance if the user has a weak signal
Customers must buy all system components (no option to rent)
Current Xfinity or Comcast customers should consider the Xfinity Home security because it seamlessly integrates with the company’s other services. For tech-savvy customers, Xfinity Home offers an array of flexible options for customizing your home security kit, including multiple home automation and smart home integration features. Plus, you can save more when you bundle Xfinity Home with internet, mobile and phone, or TV streaming.
Pros
Financing options available
Multiple customization options
Fully refundable if returned within 30 days
Cons
Requires a monitoring contract
Not compatible with some smart home devices
The Best DIY Security Systems
DIY security systems tend to be less expensive, making them a popular choice for seniors on fixed incomes. Ring, Abode and Cove offer some of the best options for seniors.
Ring Alarm is one of the more popular products in the home security field, thanks to its decade-long reputation of providing quality, easy-to-use, and affordable home security solutions. The Ring Alarm Pro system is the go-to option for homeowners looking for DIY installation and self-monitoring. The Ring Alarm Pro system combines the internet, smart home, and home security in one convenient package. Customers who bought the Alarm Pro package will receive a base station (which also functions as a router), door/window sensors, a motion detector, and a keypad.
Pros
Financing available with 0% interest
No contract required
Backup LTE connection to keep the alarm running if the internet goes out
24/7 access to a voice-activated emergency helpline
Abode Security is a company known for its premium DIY home security systems and cutting-edge equipment. One of its most popular products is the Abode iota which offers all-in-one home security and has everything you need to keep a watchful eye on your home or opt for professional monitoring if required. The iota comes with a base station, essentially a hub with a motion-sensing camera and built-in two-way audio. Furthermore, you can expand your iota kit by adding more components as needed.
Cove Home Security is a standout home security company that offers easy-to-install and reasonably priced DIY home security systems. Unlike other companies, the Cove home security system isn’t sold as a pre-packaged system. Instead, customers can choose their preferred devices, such as door sensors, motion detectors, doorbell cameras, etc., and customize their home security systems. Cove offers competitive professional monitoring fees and no long-term contracts. On the downside, there’s no option for unmonitored or self-monitoring.
Pros
No monitoring contract
Easy to install
Cons
Monitoring rates can go up at any time
Must purchase individual components (no prepackaged systems available)
The Best Self-Monitored Home Security Systems
Not everyone wants to pay a monthly fee for professional monitoring. If you’re one of them, consider a self-monitored system from one of the following companies:
Ring Alarm is one of the pioneers of DIY home alarm systems with a robust ecosystem of devices. Ring Alarm security kits are fully customizable by adding components like indoor/outdoor cameras, sensors, doorbells, smart lighting, keypads, etc. Moreover, customers can choose whether to self-monitor or pay for 24/7 professional monitoring.
Scout Alarm is not the most popular home security company, but it offers straightforward home security solutions with a high level of customization and a self-monitoring option. Scout Alarm features the Arlo Home Security System, a comprehensive smart home security system starting at $199.99. Alternatively, you can build your home security bundle and save more by bundling your kit with Scout Alarm’s best-selling devices. Unfortunately, smart detection features are unavailable if you select a self-monitoring plan.
Pros
Continuous recording for extra peace of mind
Multiple camera options
High-quality sensors
Cons
Smart detection features not included with self-monitored system
System must be connected to power supply for continuous recording
If you want a no-frills home security system that won’t break the bank, the Ooma Smart Home Security System is worth consideration. Ooma home security stands out for its budget-friendly prices and lack of monthly contracts. To keep it simple, Ooma has only three straightforward plans: two paid plans and a free self-monitoring plan. Unlike other home security brands, Ooma offers true free self-monitoring since you can use the mobile app to keep track of your home without paying extra.
Pros
Local 911 support
Most affordable option
Cons
Package doesn’t include cameras
Doesn’t integrate with smart home assistants
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