What Happens When an Older Adult Falls?
For older adults living alone, a fall can be a frightening and potentially dangerous event. If they cannot get up and have no way to call for help, they may be at risk of injury or even death. Even with a cell phone, there may be times when it is not within reach or the person is unable to use it. This is why it’s crucial to have safety measures in place.
The Growing Need for Emergency Response Systems
As the population ages, the number of older adults living alone is increasing. Many of these individuals have chronic health conditions that can make them more prone to falls. Additionally, medications can sometimes cause dizziness or other side effects that increase the risk of accidents.
While most older adults prefer to age in place, they may face challenges such as limited mobility, lack of nearby support, and social isolation. These challenges are expected to become more prevalent as the baby boomer generation continues to age.
How Emergency Response Systems Work
Emergency response systems (ERS) can provide peace of mind for older adults and their families. These systems typically involve wearable devices, mobile apps, or at-home base units that allow individuals to request help with a simple press of a button.
Most systems include an app or online portal to help coordinate care, and common features include daily activity tracking, real-time location monitoring, and scheduled reminders. Some caregiver portals even offer chat features. Upgraded features, including fall detection, come at additional costs but are popular add-ons to ensure peace of mind.
The Process:
- Activate the System: When an emergency occurs, the individual can press the help button on their device. Some systems also have fall detection features that can automatically initiate a call.
- Receive Assistance: The monitoring center staff will contact the individual and assess the situation. If the system has two-way communication capabilities, they may be able to communicate directly with the person.
- Dispatch Help: If necessary, the monitoring center will dispatch appropriate assistance, such as emergency services, family members, or neighbors. They will also follow up to ensure that help has arrived.
Check out these ERS with ratings to compare before you buy
- Best medical alert systems, Medical Alert Buyer’s Guide
- Best medical alert systems, National Council on Aging
- Best Medical Alert Systems, Top Ten.com
- Medical Alert Systems, Consumer Affairs
For persons with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia, MedicAlert® + Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return® is a 24-hour nationwide emergency response service for individuals who wander or have a medical emergency. Twenty-four (24) hour assistance is provided, no matter when or where the person is reported missing. The information is available through the Texas Department of Health and Human Services and Alzheimer’s Association.
What is the cost, and how do I pay for it?
Estimates do not include extra features, accessories, or shipping costs. Also, there may be a monthly fee. Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover the cost of medical alert systems. Medicare Advantage (Part C) may cover some costs, but each plan varies. You should confirm coverage with your medical insurance provider. Contact your local area agency about aging to see if they have programs to help pay for these devices.
Home medical alert systems typically cost $20–$30 per month. Some community agencies, especially those serving older adults like some area agencies on aging, may be able to help with costs.
Call 211 across the US and ask about agencies who might help pay for the devices and the related services.
Another option is to contact the state Health and Human Services Department. Assistance may be available under the Texas Health and Human Services STAR+PLUS Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) program. For those living outside Texas, search for a similar organization in your state or call 211.
How do I talk to my older parent, spouse, or other care receiver about wearing an ERS device?
- Discuss the benefits of having an ERS device, including the independence they maintain instead of living in a facility.
- “By wearing this emergency alert device, you are safer 24/7.”
- “I know you like using your cell phone, but it may not always be with you. In the middle of the night, you may get up to go to the bathroom or to the kitchen and not take your phone/“
- “I am concerned about you being here alone and needing help.”
- “With your history of falls, I don’t want you to be seriously hurt, like breaking a bone, your hip, or hitting your head so hard you lose consciousness.“
- “Put yourself in our place. How would you feel if something happened to (one of us) (me) and having a simple device might have prevented an injury?“
Are you considering a medical alert system for yourself or a loved one?
Although a medical alert system may feel like an unnecessary caregiving cost on top of mounting expenses, it can provide peace of mind that your care recipient has easy access to help if an emergency happens and you’re not there. Plus, when you break down the costs, this safety device offers 24/7 monitoring and supportive caregiver features for as little as $1–$2 per day. Do some research to compare features and costs, and talk to your doctor to see if it’s the right fit for you.
Edited by Zanda Hilger, M. Ed., LPC
Sources
- Educate Yourself on medical alert technology, NCOA Advisor
- 7 Best Medical Alert Systems, NCOA Advisor
- Best Medical Alert Systems of 2024, Forbes Health
- How to Talk to Loved Ones, National Council on Aging
- MedicAlert® + Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return®
Do you know how to help someone up after a fall? (Survey)
Falls can be scary for both the person who falls and their loved ones. Knowing how to help someone up safely can make a big difference.
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We hope this information is helpful to you in the important work you do as a family caregiver.
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