However, if you have limited fine motor skills or other conditions that might make it hard for you to push a small button, choose a device that will work better for you, like one that uses a switch instead.
Do You Have a Condition That Will Get Worse Over Time?
When choosing a medical alert system, it’s important to consider the reason that you’re getting one.
If you have a degenerative condition or one that is likely to worsen over time, choose a system that will still work well if your condition worsens.
Symptoms to consider:
- Forgetfulness and wandering: a GPS tracker might be useful if you’re unable to remember where you are
- Trouble communicating: A pre-planned system set in place if you press the ‘help’ button and are unable to answer the operator
- Loss of fine motor skills: will pushing a smaller button be difficult for you?
- Balance problems: fall tracking detection is helpful if you’re a fall risk
- Trouble getting up: if you do fall, are you usually able to get back up on your own?
Even if these symptoms are minimal now, they might get worse over time.
Regardless of your situation, it’s always a good idea to think about the future, and what system will be good for you now, and several years down the road.
Do You Prefer Landline Telephones or Cell Phones?
Medical alert systems can be connected to either a traditional telephone or a cell phone.
If you don’t like cell phones, you might be better off getting a system that can be hooked up to a landline.
If, on the other hand, you don’t have a landline anymore and only have a cell phone, the obvious solution is to get a system that will work with your cell phone.
One thing to consider, though, is where you live. Do you have good cell phone reception? If not, it might be worth hooking the system up to a landline for added stability.
Unless you live in a very rural area, cell phone reception in more places is good enough to safely use an emergency alert system.
How Tech-Savvy Are You?
Medical alert systems have come a long way with the improvement of technology. Nowadays, there are systems to suit every need and lifestyle.
There are even systems that connect to smartwatches and allow for video calling with friends and family, and much more.
But having a lot of extra features won’t help someone who’s not comfortable with new technology, especially if there are cognitive impairments to be considered.
Be sure to get a system and device that you’re comfortable using, and that you’re confident you’ll know how to work during an emergency situation.
How Much Are You Able to Spend on the System?
Unfortunately, the cost is something you have to consider when getting a medical alert system. These systems come in all shapes and sizes, and naturally, all price ranges, too.
Home-based systems tied to a landline phone tend to be the least expensive. Mobile systems with GPS tracking can be a little more pricey.
However, don’t assume that just because something is more expensive, that it’s automatically better. Shop around for the best prices and make sure to choose a company with a good reputation.
Also, make sure that you understand exactly what you’re being charged for, so you don’t get any surprises when the first monthly statement comes.
It’s important to note that most insurance companies won’t cover medical alert systems. Medicaid sometimes will, depending on the state.
Medical Alert System Features
Once you’ve taken stock of your needs, it’s time to narrow down medical alert systems based on their features.
By now, you probably have a pretty good idea of what you might want out of a system. But we’ve listed the most common features below, so you can make sure to get a system that has all the features you want.
Home Versus Mobile Systems
As we mentioned earlier, home-based systems are great for people who aren’t able to leave the house on their own. These systems are often less expensive than mobile systems.
But mobile systems are ideal for active people who regularly leave the house, even if this just means walking around a large yard. With mobile systems, there’s no fear of accidentally getting out of range of the system.
Landline Versus Cell Phone
The main concern over whether to get a landline-based system or one that connects to a cell phone is how strong the cell reception is in your area.
It’s also important to note that landlines work only for home-based systems. Mobile systems do need to be connected to a cell phone.
Monitored Versus Unmonitored Medical Alert Systems
Monitored medical alert systems will put you in touch with a live operator, who will assess your situation and call emergency services, or a friend or family member.
Unmonitored medical alert systems will call a list of your emergency contacts, and call emergency services if none of your emergency contacts answer the call.
Unmonitored medical alert systems tend to be less expensive but may not provide as much speed or security as some would prefer.
Fall Detection For Fall Risks
Not all medical alert systems automatically come with fall detection. Many are only activated if you push the button.
