How it works
Sensors inside the pendant or watch track movement. When they register the pattern of a hard fall, a sudden drop followed by an impact, the device places a call to the monitoring center on its own. An operator comes on the line, checks on the wearer, and sends help if they don’t respond or say they need it.
Why it matters
- Help when they can’t press the button. After a fall, someone may be dazed, unconscious or unable to move their arm.
- Confidence to stay active. Many people who have fallen start doing less out of fear. Knowing help will come either way makes it easier to keep moving.
- Less worry for family. Caregivers know an alert will go out even if their parent can’t make the call.
What it can’t do
No fall detection catches every fall. Slow slides, like sinking down against a wall, may not register. That’s why the wearer should always press the button when they can. Occasionally a sudden movement can trigger a call by mistake. That’s fine: the operator simply checks in, and the wearer can say they’re OK.
Who should add it
Consider fall detection if your parent has fallen before, has a condition or takes medication that affects balance, uses a cane or walker, or spends long stretches alone.
Which ATC Alert devices offer it
Fall detection is available on the Anywhere Alert Pendant and the Anywhere Alert Watch for $10 a month. You can add it at checkout.