Medical alert systems connect people with help in the event of a fall or other emergency.
Medical alert devices are available as at-home systems or on-the-go wearables, monitored or unmonitored, and traditional or specialized. Some systems include a wearable help button and a base unit, and some have wall-mounted options.
Medical alert systems vary, but options may include:
- Digital Health Profile
allergies, medications, preexisting conditions, surgeries, and more. - 24/7 Emergency Response Team
the company can convey vital information to first responders during a medical in an emergency. - Vaccination Records
For example: Influenza, Pneumonia, Shingles, Tetanus, Covid, etc. - Printable Patient Profile
for first responders, hospitals, or medical appointments - Patient Instructions
information that’s important to care, such as the use of rescue medications or contraindications for tests like MRIs. - Emergency Contact Notification
contacts your designated emergency family or friends. - 24/7 Wandering Support
Wandering is common with autism and dementia. The medical alert company works with local authorities to help ensure a safe return. - Asthma action plan
plan to manage asthma, with specific instructions for rescue medications. - Digital advance directives
Such as a medical power of attorney, directive to physicians or family or surrogates, and a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR). For more info on this topic visit: Legal Forms and Finding an Elder Law Attorney - Document Storage
important medical information like treatment plans. - Physician Notification
notifies the designated physician of an emergency incident.
The National Council on Aging lists their evaluation of the 12 Best Medical Alert Systems in 2022.
For those experiencing memory loss, The Alzheimer’s Association, in collaboration with MedicAlert® Foundation,* provides membership plans for 24/7 Wandering Support, the nationwide emergency response service which facilitates the safe return of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia who wander or have a medical emergency.
*MedicAlert Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has been saving and protecting lives since its founding in 1956.
Familycaregiversonline.net does not endorse products, but shares information that may benefit family caregivers.
Sources: National Council on Aging and MedicAlert® Foundation
We hope this information is helpful to you in the important work you do as a family caregiver.
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