Senior Safety Solutions: Navigating the World of Personal Emergency Response

Last week we took a look at wearable technology and part of that was a brief look at pros and cons of medical alert devices. You can find that post here. Another name for Medical alert devices is Personal Emergency Response System (PERS). Today we will look at an overview of this technology as well as compare four brands to see which may be the best fit for your loved one.

As our loved ones grow older, we often worry about their safety, especially when they're living alone. But thanks to technology, there's a way to help them stay safe and give us peace of mind. It's called a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS), and it's like a safety net for seniors who live independently. Let's explore how PERS works and why it's so important.

Understanding Personal Emergency Response Systems

What exactly is PERS? It's a small device, like a necklace or bracelet, that seniors can wear. If they need help, they just press a button on it, and it calls for help right away. It's connected to a service that knows who to call, whether it's a family member, a neighbor, or even emergency services.

PERS is super helpful for seniors who want to live in their own homes. It means they can get help fast if they fall or feel sick. And for us, the caregivers, it means we don't have to worry all the time. We know they can reach out for help anytime they need it.

Features of PERS That Enhance Safety

PERS devices come with features that are all about keeping seniors safe. First, there's the help button, which is easy to press. They can wear it around their neck or wrist, so it's always there if they need it.

Another cool thing is GPS and location tracking. This is great for seniors who like to go out for walks or to the store. If they need help when they're out, the PERS device knows where they are and can send help to the right place.

Integration with Health Monitoring

But PERS isn't just for emergencies. Some devices can also keep an eye on health stuff. They can check things like heart rate or remind seniors to take their pills. It's like having a little nurse that's always watching, ready to help.

Making PERS Work for Your Loved One

Now, every senior is different, so you want to make sure the PERS system works just right for them. You can set it up to call you, a neighbor, or go straight to emergency services. And it's important to practice using it so they feel comfortable and know what to do.

Some seniors might feel shy or worried about using technology. But once they see how easy and helpful PERS is, they'll feel more confident.

Brands of Products in the PERS space and Benefits and Deficits of Each

Life Alert
Benefits:

• Life Alert is widely recognized, partly due to its famous slogan, "Help! I've fallen and I can't get up!"
• Offers a range of services, including home-based systems and mobile options.
• Known for its high-quality equipment and reliable 24/7 monitoring service.
• GPS-enabled devices are available for use outside the home.
• Deficits:
  • Life Alert tends to be more expensive than some other options, with higher monthly fees.
  • Requires a three-year contract, which may not be suitable for all users.
  • The system doesn't offer fall detection automatically; it needs to be added separately.

Medical Alert
Benefits:

• Medical Alert offers both at-home and on-the-go systems, providing flexibility for different needs.
• Includes fall detection options in some of its plans.
• Provides a price-lock guarantee, ensuring that monthly rates will not increase.
• No long-term contracts required, allowing for greater flexibility.
• Deficits:
  • Some users have reported that the equipment feels a bit dated compared to newer, sleeker models.
  • The range of the in-home system may be limited, which could be a concern for larger homes.

Bay Alarm Medical
Benefits:

• Bay Alarm Medical is known for its excellent customer service and support.
• Offers a range of products, including in-home systems, mobile systems, and even in-car medical alert options.
• Provides services in multiple languages, which is beneficial for non-English speaking users.
• Competitive pricing, including discounts for annual payment plans.
• Deficits:
  • Fall detection is not included in the basic plan and requires an additional fee.
  • Some users have noted that the mobile system's battery life could be improved.

Phillips Lifeline
Benefits:

• Phillips Lifeline offers a well-respected, reliable service with a good reputation.
• Provides a range of options, including landline and cellular in-home systems, and a mobile option with GPS.
• Their 'GoSafe' option offers advanced GPS services for users who go out frequently.
• Features automatic fall detection in some plans.
• Deficits:
  • The monthly fees can be on the higher side, especially for the plans with more features.
  • Equipment fees are also charged, which can add to the overall cost.

Each of these PERS brands has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice often depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the senior and their caregivers. Pricing can range from $20 to $60 or more per month. Some products also require an upfront cost for the equipment as well. 

Let me know which option you found to be the best for your loved one and why?

That's all for today.

Take care, keep mom safe and have a great day!

Winn

Articles of Interest:

1. 5 COMMON MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS IN SENIORS
2. HOW TO DEAL WITH IRRATIONAL ELDERLY PARENTS PEACEFULLY
3. THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITIES THAT BOOST THE MORALE OF THE ELDERLY