Jane.Smallman@hqpublications.com
Home Security Solutions Columnist
If you are an elderly person who lives alone, or are someone who suffers from a medical condition that means you might need to alert emergency medical services at any time, a medical alert device (sometimes called a "medical alarm") could put your mind at rest.
What Is a Medical Alert Device?
- A medical alert device is a small, personal emergency alarm that is monitored 24-hours a day by a remote emergency response center.
- It is small enough to be worn as a necklace, pendant, bracelet, watchstrap, or key chain, or can be a simple button beside the bed.
How Does a Medical Alert Device Work?
- The medical alert device works anywhere there is a phone line. An emergency console is installed anywhere in your home and the medical alert device stays in continual contact with this using a wireless signal.
- In a medical emergency you can activate the alarm and alert medical services by pressing the emergency button on the medical alert device.
- Once the medical alert device is activated, it signals the emergency console to contact the medical alarm company's 24-hour emergency response center OR to alert other emergency contacts which you have pre-programmed into the system.
What Are the Benefits of Installing a Medical Alert Device System?
- The medical alert device means you can contact emergency services at any time, from anywhere in your house.
- You can get help even if you are unable to speak or reach the phone.
- You can continue to live independently knowing that expert help is at hand 24-hours a day.
If you are worried that you might need help in an emergency, the medical alert device is a simple way to give you peace of mind and in many cases health insurance or Medicare will cover the cost.
