Accidents happen. Whether you’re on the highway or in the comfort of your home, you may still be exposed to danger.
Although these setbacks affect people of all ages, it is more common among older adults. A study reveals that adults over 65 experience 70% of fatal accidents. For that reason, it is expedient to equip seniors with around-the-clock protection in case of an emergency.
In recent times, personal medical alarm systems have become the go-to medium for providing instant support for the aging population in emergencies. They are affordable, suitable for various lifestyles, and easy to use. Not only can a personal emergency alarm system help prevent lasting damage from injuries, but it can also save lives.
Here are seven critical situations where this gadget can save a senior’s life.
1. Falls
When an aging person is injured, it’s mostly due to a fall. The effects of these incidents are more malignant than they may appear.
Falls may lead to serious health complications like fractures, heart conditions, and fatalities. Under these conditions, the affected may not be able to call the emergency helpline for assistance. With a personal medical alarm device, the injured can get timely medical help without lifting a finger.
A personal medical alert comes with anti-fall technology, a sensor that detects sudden impacts such as a collision or thud. Upon receiving this signal, the device automatically alerts the monitoring unit of a possible medical emergency. In response, they immediately dispatch emergency responders to the scene.
Nevertheless, when looking for a personal medical alert system, ensure that they provide services in your area. For instance, if you reside in Canada, opt for a personal medical alert Canada system that offers service in Canada.
2. Ongoing Medical Concerns
Many old people battle at least one medical issue. Heart attacks, diabetes, strokes, and memory loss are mostly common among people in their later years. Medical concerns may restrict adults to the confines of their house to avoid exacerbating the conditions. They may also require around-the-clock attention as these ailments may suddenly get intense.
For example, people with heart issues may have a heart attack when they hear a bang. Meanwhile, some may develop a stroke under immense pressure or fear when in contact with an intruder.
These occurrences make it nearly impossible to reach the phone or call for help. In times like these, a personal medical alarm system can be tremendously helpful. One push of a button can facilitate a timely intervention.
3. Cognitive Impairment
Although young people experience varying levels of cognitive decline, this medical issue is mostly common among the aging population. Cognitive impairment may lead to wandering and disorientation, especially for people with aggressive dementia or Alzheimer’s.
This poor mental state also exposes them to self-inflicted dangers such as domestic fires. When domestic accidents occur or a mentally impaired person goes missing, the GPS on their wearable medical alarm device can help medical and security agents locate and bring them to safety.
4. Communication Issues
Some medical emergencies can leave adults unable to verbally communicate their situation. For instance, a stroke typically causes slurred speech, making it nearly impossible to articulate correctly. Likewise, choking on food or clothing accessories will also make verbal communication extremely difficult.
Fortunately, a personal medical alert system ensures that inability to communicate doesn’t result in grave consequences.
With or without the ability to speak, adults can get immediate medical assistance with the click of a button. The medical device signals the monitoring unit, which comprises trained individuals who can recognize distress situations. The agents will dispatch emergency support immediately.
5. Slips and Cuts
When people age, performing regular activities or routine chores can be tricky. Due to mobility or cognitive issues, these activities are a risk to their health and can result in an emergency.
For instance, preparing breakfast may involve peeling fruits or slicing vegetables. Older adults may accidentally cut themselves in the process.
Likewise, taking showers or baths comes with unique challenges as people age. It is common for bathroom wall tiles to be wet or to find water spills on the floor. Stepping on water spills or grabbing onto a slippery wall can make elderly people lose balance.
Without help, cuts may lead to uncontrollable blood loss, while slips may lead to broken hips or concussions. A personal medical alert system can save lives in these moments. It will ensure that immediate help arrives so that slips or cuts don’t produce life-threatening outcomes.
6. Isolation
Living alone or far from family and friends can be risky. Every adult risks exacerbating an accident in isolation, as injuries can become malignant without timely intervention.
For example, the young population in rural settings often migrates to cities for work opportunities and better living standards. With time, rural settings become populated by aging citizens, many of whom live alone.
To ensure that older family members receive timely care when they need it the most, many secure their health with a personal medical alarm system. This safety framework brings emergency care to their doorsteps.
7. Outdoor Mishaps
If mobility permits, it’s always advisable for elders to step outside the house. They can take on responsibilities like gardening, feeding farm animals, or walking the pets. Unfortunately, accidents may occur whether in the yard or a mile away from their residence.
Thanks to the tracking technology in personal medical alert devices, the monitoring team can detect the location of the incident. They will forward this information to the nearest emergency unit to facilitate a timely medical rescue.
Final Thoughts
Accidents can make adults lie helplessly on the floor for hours or days, depending on their living situation. Soon, dehydration, hypothermia, and other severe bodily reactions set in, which can be fatal.
You can’t always be present to watch over your elderly loved ones. However, you can guarantee immediate medical aid with a personal medical alarm system. With this security framework, your loved ones will receive instant emergency dispatch wherever they are.
Medical alert systems are a must-have for the elderly, regardless of their health condition. They save lives.
