In an emergency situation, we’ve been trained to call 9-1-1. For medical emergencies, however, time is of the essence when saving a life. Relying solely on 9-1-1 might not be enough to help you and your loved ones in need.

A faster and more effective way to call for help is to use a medical alert device. At the touch of a button, medical professionals are alerted and come instantly to provide assistance for those in need.

Read on to learn more about how these devices work, who they are designed for and features you should consider.

How Do Medical Alert Devices Work?

Medical alert devices, which are also known as medical alert systems, are a subset of medical instruments that send a contact to a dispatcher who can provide assistance in case of an emergency.

Most models do not require a phone or wifi access, only the cellular data that already comes with the device is sufficient for it to work. However, if the patient lives in a remote area with limited to no data service, it might be more difficult to get in touch with a dispatcher.

Who Is Likely to Use a Medical Alert Device?

Medical alert devices are frequently used by the elderly or handicapped so that in the event of a fall or life-threatening situation, assistance is simply a button away.

However, the use of these instruments can extend to anyone else who feels the need to use it. These individuals include senior citizens living independently, individuals with a history of falls, or even healthy adults that just want to take precautions against possible emergencies.

What Are The Different Types of Medical Alert Devices?

There are two kinds of medical alert systems: monitored and unmonitored.

Monitored Alert Device

This kind of alert system connects you to a monitoring center. A trained professional will then help you assess the situation and instantly connect you to the help you need. If your situation requires medical services, they will contact the appropriate resources, such as a doctor or even an ambulance. If it is not a medical emergency the staff member can connect you to a family member or another resource you may need, such as a firefighter or the police.

Monitored devices can be further classified into at-home and on-the-go medical devices.

At-home devices have a base unit located in the user's home, where a push button or portable in-home button is available. This type of system is mostly recommended for users who mainly stay inside their homes.

On-the-go devices, on the other hand, can send out an emergency signal even if the user is not at home. Most of these devices have GPS tracking, which makes it easy and quick to find a patient in an emergency.

Unmonitored Alert Device

Most unmonitored alert devices bypass the need for a monitoring center, and instead dial an emergency contact, such as a friend or relative, immediately.

The only exceptions are in-home alarm systems, which are especially designed for people that require assistive living services. An example might be senior citizens who have the help of in-home caregivers. If they fall, or get into an accident, the system will sound an alarm and the caregiver will immediatly notified.

What Are Different Features Of Medical Alert Devices?

All medical alert devices have the basic function of calling for immediate help. However, not all of these devices are built in the same way. Some may have a limited range, and others may have more or fewer features than others. Below are some of the factors to consider when buying to get a medical alert device.

Range of the alert system

In-home medical alert devices can only be used inside the user's home. Mobile devices, on the other hand, can be worn and taken outside the home. If the emergency button is too far from the base unit , it might not be able to work properly due to lack of range.

Cellular connection

Medical alert devices may need a cellular connection to be able to send alert signals to a predetermined contact person or monitoring center. Where the user resides and their cellular package can affect this connection.

Delays in response

While medical alert devices promise help at the push of a button, there may still be a variation on how quickly that help will arrive. One thing to consider is that there may be delays in getting a response from an operator.

The waiting time may take a few seconds to a few minutes, but in emergency situations, every moment counts. So before purchasing a device, ask what their average response time is.

Miscellaneous features

You may want to consider the additional features of a medical alert device, which can help add a sense of safety. Some medical systems may offer add-ons such as waterproofing, dust resistance or even automatic fall detection.

These devices add an increased sense of security and have helped many people stay safe in life-threatening situations. When considering a medical alert system, it is important to understand the individual's lifestyle to see which features are the most beneficial.

All in All

No matter which medical alert device you choose to purchase, it will provide you with great peace of mind knowing that if the unimaginble happens, you or your loved one will be well assisted.