MedicAlert Awareness Month: Does Your Aging Loved One Need a Medical Alert System?

Medical Alert ID’s are commonly worn by elderly or disabled individuals so help is literally at their fingertips should they fall or experience a life-threatening emergency. They are a wearable device that can be watches, necklaces, bracelets, or even keychains worn on the belt loop, shoes, or carried in a bag. The purpose is to have the device within easy reach should help be needed. Today we will share with you who needs a medical alert system and why your loved one needs a medical alert system.

People of all ages rely on these systems for their safety by seeking help when it’s necessary. Medical alert systems can benefit a wide variety of people, including those that:

• People at risk of falling
  • Falling is a big health risk that the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Older adults must learn the facts about this easily avoided health hazard that causes serious head injuries, broken bones, and hip fractures. Anyone at risk of falling can benefit from a medical alert system to receive help faster if a fall occurs.

• People who live alone
  • Older people who choose to age in place may benefit from the emotional comforts at home – but they may be at higher risk for falling or injuring themselves with no help available. Living alone can mean that if you experience an accident, medical emergency, or break-in, you are on your own to navigate the crisis. If you’re living life on the go or do not have a mobile phone, a Medical Alert has a mobile system that works the same way outside of the home.

• People with life-threatening conditions
  • Regardless of your age, if you have a severe medical condition or a physical disability that limits your ability to move around, you might want to consider a medical alert system. With Medical Alert systems, help is literally at your fingertips.

• People who want to give their loved one’s peace of mind
  • If your loved one lives alone or far away from you and has a health condition, the chances are good that you worry about them. Investing in a medical alert system gives the ultimate peace of mind. If your loved one knows they have access to every kind of emergency assistance available with just the push of a button they will be able to breathe with a sigh of relief.

• People who live with a difficult-to-manage diseases like epilepsy and diabetes.
• People who are recovering from surgery or other medical procedures.
• People who have poor hearing or eyesight.
• People who have declined cognitive function like those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

For seniors or a loved one who wishes to live independently and safely age in place for as long as possible, a medical alert system is a great investment in your home. They ensure that you won’t ever be abandoned or left alone if they injure themselves. If you still aren’t sure if your loved one needs medical identification, you can contact a care manager at LifeWorx and discuss your concerns.