What to Consider When Choosing a Personal Health Alarm System

Many devices can be used to summon help in case a senior is involved in an accident (such as a fall) that makes him or her unable to reach the phone. However, the effectiveness of those devices depends on the caregiver picking the right personal health alarm for the senior family member. This article discusses some of the factors that you can base upon to select the most appropriate personal health alarm.

Impact of Water on the Device

Many emergencies occur when seniors are using the bathroom. For example, he or she may slip and fall after taking a shower. You should pick a device that can be used in places that have a lot of moisture, such as bathrooms and swimming pools.

The Cost

Different suppliers of security systems price the personal health alarm devices differently. For example, some levy a separate charge for each of the components, while others levy a single charge for the entire system. Some suppliers levy a monthly fee that never changes once you buy the device. Others increase the monthly fee each year. It may be advisable to pick a device whose cost is fixed for the entire duration of ownership. You should also pay attention to the terms of cancellation. Pick a device whose supplier allows you to cancel the contract at any time without incurring a cancellation fee.

Ease of Use

A personal health alarm is only as good as how it can be used without any hassles. Consider the emergency button; is it large enough for an elderly person to see it or use it when the need arises?  Is the device light enough to carry? An elderly person may leave his or her personal medical alarm on the bedside if he or she finds it very heavy to wear at all times. Pick a device that does not have complicated functions. You should also pick a device that you think will be easy for your senior relative to have on his or her body at all times. For example, some seniors may find it easier to use a device that they wear around the neck, while others prefer those that are worn around the wrist.

Encourage the senior family member to have the personal health alarm device at all times so that he or she can avoid having a caregiver monitoring him or her at all times. Test the device regularly and contact the supplier in case you suspect that it has developed a fault that can compromise the security of your elderly relative.