According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults report about 36 million falls each year — and 20% of those falls result in broken bones, head injuries, and other physical traumas. That’s why more doctors are encouraging their older patients to wear safety alert devices or portable monitors.
This is known as the “automated hovering” method. It allows doctors to monitor their patients from a distance. Some of these safety alert devices even work to notify family members when something happens, even if it’s just the front door opening. They can also dispatch first responders when necessary, which can help aging loved ones retain their autonomy without having to forgo assistance during an emergency
Below we’ll cover some of the main benefits of safety alert devices for seniors.
Why Seniors Might Consider a Safety Alert Device
Aging gracefully is a priority for many older adults. With that said, aging eventually leads to a decrease in mobility and agility to a certain extent. If you’re a senior living alone or have an aging adult in your life who’s living alone, safety is likely a top priority.
If there’s a small misstep or minor medical episode and you cannot reach the phone, the situation could still become dangerous. Alert devices bridge the gap between independence and decreasing mobility for seniors who live alone, providing the following benefits.
Convenience
Safety alert devices are wearable, usually in the form of pendants, bracelets, or smartwatches. However, they’re discreet, as opposed to large and bulky. This makes them less conspicuous to wear while still providing the convenience of attachment to the wearer. They also work with the touch of a button, so you don’t have to worry about reaching for the phone or remembering contact information.
Easy Installation
Many safety alert devices also come with a main home unit that allows them to transmit the alert signal. These units usually look like smart speakers or answering machines so they remain discreet, and they may also have two-way speakers for another form of communication. Best of all, they’re usually ready to work once you connect them to a power source and the phone line.
Detailed Monitoring
Many safety alert devices come with environmental sensors. These sensors work to monitor the living space for emergencies such as fire, carbon monoxide, break-ins, and more. Depending on the alert system chosen, they can also automatically send out signals to alert monitoring centers, first responders, and family members when triggered.
Plenty of Variety
Alert devices today are more modern and come in a wide variety of models to choose from that fit all kinds of lifestyles and preferences. For example, some look like fitness watches and come with GPS to help family members track their loved ones.
Peace of Mind
Accidents can and will happen, regardless of how athletic or mobile an aging adult is. Safety alert devices allow for peace of mind for both the seniors living alone and their families, as the devices send out alerts immediately to the appropriate parties. The alternative is to not have a safety alert device, which may cause family members to worry about loved ones living alone and whether or not they’ll find out in time if an accident happens.
Independent Living
Many seniors who live alone value their independence. Since the owner of the safety alert device can trigger the alarm when needed — or can depend on the signal to go out to first responders during certain events — they can continue to live independently with more ease. This includes showering, sleeping, working in the yard, cooking, and so on, without forgoing a safety net.
Immediate Assistance
Most safety alert devices come with 24-hour monitoring. This means when there’s an emergency situation, the devices can dispatch family and first responders whenever needed to bring immediate assistance.
Safety alert devices can eventually become a necessity for many aging adults. However, there are virtually no downsides to investing in one of these devices for yourself or a loved one. Research costs, customer reviews, and other details to discover options that can best meet your needs.