Did you know a senior citizen is treated for a fall every 11 seconds? And, every 19 minutes, a senior dies from a fall-related injury?

A medical alert system can get help for seniors faster in the event of a fall or other injury. A good system also comforts the children with the knowledge their parent is safe, even when they're not around.

If you're interested in ordering an alert system for your parent, keep reading to learn what you should look for in a device.

Features

Take a moment and ask yourself what you want the medical alert system to do. Some common features most people prefer include:

Connection to Emergency Services

A medical alert system is useless if it can't call for help.

Most devices connect wearers directly to emergency services, usually through a button, helping them get the assistance they need fast.

Fall Detection

The sooner your parent can get help after a fall, the better their chances of survival and recovery.

If your parent is knocked unconscious when they fall, a device with fall detection can get help without the push of a button.

Medical Monitoring

Some seniors also like a device that reminds them to take their medications.

Some alert devices also have the ability to monitor vitals like blood pressure and heart rate and will alert the wearer when they are outside a normal range.

Bonus Features

Emergency assistance, fall detection, and medical monitoring are the most important features to look for in an alert system. But these extras can also come in handy:

Some alert devices also have the ability to monitor vitals like blood pressure and heart rate and will alert the wearer when they are outside a normal range.

• GPS detection and tracking for seniors who still drive
• Activity and fitness monitoring
• Daily check-ins
• Home security monitoring for fires, smoke, and carbon monoxide

Some people want all the bells and whistles, while others need a simpler device. Talk to your parent to see what they prefer.

Availability

When you're looking for a company that sells alert devices, make sure their services are available in your parent's specific area. Many national companies don't service all locations equally. You'll need to do some research before signing up.

Make sure you include the city and state in your online search when looking for alert systems or devices.

You can also reach out to a local agency on aging or a senior facility to ask for a list of companies that offer service where your parent lives.

Equipment

Before choosing a medical alert device, look at the equipment it comes with to make sure your parent will use it.

Some things to look for include:

Wearability

The device should be comfortable -- no sharp edges or materials that will irritate the skin. It should also be attractive or feature a minimalist design that your parent will want to wear on a daily basis.

Functionality

Can your parent wear their device in the shower or bathtub? A waterproof device is ideal since many falls happen in the bathroom.

The device should also work in all areas of your parent's home. What's the point of investing in an alert system that doesn't have a strong enough signal to protect your parent when they're in the garage or backyard?

Durability

Pay attention to the material the device is made of. It should be able to endure a significant amount of wear and tear. The battery should also be long-lasting and should have a simple, quick charging method.

You'll also want to think about technology updates. Will the device update automatically, or will your parent have to remember to take care of them?

Response and Monitoring

What happens when your loved one falls or calls for help using their device? How long will they have to wait for assistance?

Be sure to ask the following questions regarding response and monitoring:

• What is the average response time?
• How are dispatchers and operators trained?
• Can dispatchers and operators communicate in your parent's preferred language?
• Are the monitoring centers located in the U.S. or abroad?
• Is customer service available 24/7?

You'll also want to take security into account. Find out what measures the company has in place to prevent hacking and protect your parent's private information.

How to Save Money on a Medical Alert System

If you're looking to save money, you may be able to get a discount if your parent is a veteran or an AARP member. Some companies also offer discounts or sliding fee scales for low-income individuals.

In some states, Medicaid will also cover a portion or all of the cost of the device. You'll have to check with your provider to see if that's an option in your state.

Availability

When you're looking for a company that sells alert devices, make sure their services are available in your parent's specific area. Many national companies don't service all locations equally. You'll need to do some research before signing up.

Make sure you include the city and state in your online search when looking for alert systems or devices.

You can also reach out to a local agency on aging or a senior facility to ask for a list of companies that offer service where your parent lives.

Customer Satisfaction

What are people saying about the alert company you're considering? Are they satisfied with the product? What about the customer service and complaints department?

Look for online reviews to help you make your decision. It's also a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau, as well as local consumer reporting agencies.

Don't forget to ask for in-person referrals as well. Talk to friends or family members to see which companies they've enjoyed or had problems with.

Does Your Loved One Need a Medical Alert System?

It can hard to decide whether or not your parent needs a medical alert system. But it's better to be safe than sorry.

If you're interested in getting a device, contact us at ATC Alert today. We'll help you find the perfect system to keep your parent safe!.