Senior Medical Alarm Systems

With the words, "I've fallen…and I can't get up," the concept of senior medical alarm systems is forever ingrained in many 80s television viewers' minds. While this TV commercial pitch has become a comedic punch line, medical alert systems are serious business, providing peace of mind to seniors and their families.

What would happen if you faced a stroke, heart attack or fall while living alone? How long might you remain by yourself before help arrived? Senior medical alarm systems provide prompt, emergency assistance with the push of a button. They empower seniors with the extra confidence they need to be independent, delaying the need for assisted living or nursing home care. Additionally, medical alarm systems provide valuable freedom to caregivers, allowing them to take breaks from their responsibilities with fewer worries.

The basic senior medical alarm system consists of a push-button transmitter and a receiver. The senior keeps the transmitter with him at all times, usually wearing it on a chain around his neck or as a bracelet. When faced with a medical emergency, the senior pushes the button, and the transmitter calls the medical alarm company through the receiver. The receiver then works like a speakerphone allowing two-way communication between the senior and the operator. If he is still able to speak, he can tell the operator exactly what type of assistance he needs. If operators don't receive a response, they will call emergency personnel to the scene. The system is available around-the-clock.

Some systems add an extra level of monitoring, such as a main receiver equipped with a reset button that must be pushed once or twice-a-day. If the system is not reset as scheduled, the company will call the customer to ensure she is safe. If the phone call goes unanswered, the company will then alert emergency personnel of the possible danger.

Senior medical alarm systems may also offer security, fire or carbon monoxide monitoring. These types of alarms and detectors are placed throughout the home. When the alarm is triggered, it communicates with the security company through the main receiver. The operator can alert the authorities and/or inform the senior of the potential danger from carbon monoxide. Note that, additional fees are assessed for the extra monitoring and related equipment.

Available senior medical alarm systems include:

• LifeAlert
• Philips Lifeline
• MedScope
• Connect America
• Local and regional companies may offer additional options.

Be an informed consumer when shopping for a senior medical alarm system. You want to find the system that best fits your needs and budget while avoiding disreputable companies.

• Never commit to a senior medical alarm system without researching the service company.
• Read your contract carefully and consider questions such as:
  • How long is the contract in effect?
  • Will the user be held to the full contract if she dies or must be moved to a nursing home?
  • What are the bottom-line costs involved? Extra charges may incur for equipment, shipping, installation, and activation.
• Don't give in to hard-sell tactics and avoid being intimidated. If a telemarketer calls, offering a system, respond that you'll decide after considering the offer.
• Check with the Better Business Bureau before committing to a company.
• If you don't feel comfortable performing research and weighing the options on your own, ask a friend or family member for help.

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