That could be a real problem if, for example, your loved one falls in the yard or garage, or several rooms away from the base. What's the range? With an in-home system, find out how far the wearable help button can be from the base unit and still operate.Is it fully waterproof? Can it be worn in the shower? Can it be fully immersed in water? Many falls happen in the bathroom and kitchen, so this is vital.Also, is it attractive or unobtrusive enough that he or she will be willing to wear it? Look out for sharp edges, or strap materials that may irritate fragile skin. Is it wearable? You'll want a device your loved one finds comfortable.Home security monitoring. The system detects danger from fire, smoke and carbon monoxide.Or vice versa: Some smart watches include health monitoring and fall-detection apps. Display time. Alert devices might include a watch feature.Virtual family connections. Some systems enable users to make or receive ordinary calls, making it easy for family members and friends to check in.Activity and fitness tracking. These have features like step counters to monitor healthy activity and fitness goals.Daily check-in services. Some monitoring companies will check in with your loved one every day, electronically or via a live phone call.Movement monitoring. Motion detectors and beacons track movement in the home.Some can be connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth. In-car. These compact devices plug into your vehicle's 12V power outlet (what used to be the cigarette lighter) and have GPS capability.Location detection and tracking. A device with GPS is especially useful if your loved one is still driving and relatively independent.Cellular. Mobile MERS can be used anywhere cellular service is available.Medical monitoring. Some systems can be set to monitor vital signs and provide medication reminders.The button sends a signal to a base unit connected to a phone, which makes the call. Call for help. Devices with help buttons can connect the wearer to a live person at a response center or to emergency services such as the police or fire department.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nearly 36 million older Americans a year experience a fall, and more than 1 in 5 falls causes an injury, according to the U.S. Falls are perhaps the most common motivator for obtaining a medical alert system. Don't hesitate to switch to another service if it isn't a good fit - it could save a life. Once you've made a selection, be sure to monitor how it is working for your loved ones. Here are some key things to think about and questions to ask in choosing a medical alert system. For example, if she has dementia, will she understand how to operate a system - or is something automatic, like a fall-detection device, more appropriate? Does he have a disorder that could hinder communication with a call center, like aphasia or hearing loss? Will limited fine motor skills make putting on a device or pushing a button too difficult? Start by evaluating your loved ones’ specific needs and abilities, present and future. Alert services might come with smartphones or as a feature of home security systems. Now a medical alert device might include GPS, cellular connectivity, fall detection or prevention, in-home health and well-being monitors, activity trackers, movement sensors and more. Medical alert systems have evolved far beyond a basic, wearable device (like a bracelet or pendant) with a button that triggers a call to a response center in case of emergency. How do you find the one that's best for your situation? It can be complicated. En español | A medical alert system - often referred to as a personal emergency response system (PERS), medical emergency response system (MERS), health monitor or fall monitor - can provide increased independence for loved ones and peace of mind for family caregivers.
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