Medical alert systems have developed far beyond just a simple, easily wearable device (such as a pendant or bracelet) with just a single button to trigger a medical call to an on-site response center. Now, a medical alert product may include GPS, mobile connectivity, infrared portability, fall detection, monitoring, activity loggers, heart-rate monitors, self-diagnosis monitors, pre-call software, emergency lighting and much more.
Advanced medical alert systems not only have a single button but can activate multiple devices via Bluetooth. In addition, this single button can be paired with other buttons such as those for touch-screen remote control, voice activation, infrared portability, panic button, push-button entry and more. The result is that you have a highly functional medical alert system that can link up with your home computer and a multitude of mobile and wireless devices.
Medical alert systems are available in both consumer and commercial products. Most consumer products are often used in the home. They come in styles ranging from large, multi-functional pendants worn on the wrist or around the neck to tiny, handy travel pendants. The main difference is their size and shape. The consumer medical alert systems are often lightweight and compact while the travel models are larger and designed more for their functionality.
Consumer medical alert systems typically consists of a compact, lightweight and easy-to-fit travel device and is easy to use even by children. Most of them come with two-way communication using a handheld 2-ways-talk feature and a battery backup. A unique feature in these systems is the "panic button". Some of these systems also have a feature allowing the caregiver to manually release the "panic button", but this function may only be used in a few select situations and is not recommended for all patients.
Commercial medical alert systems generally consists of a larger, more robust design. These devices are often battery powered. The majority of the larger units will have a button or a dial on the front of the unit that can be pressed at any time to call the attention of the medical team. Depending on the model, it may also be able to manually send out a response back to the center, should an emergency occurs that requires an ambulance or other vehicle.
While some of these medical alert systems require no button to push, some do. Some models allow the patient to make a verbal request to the emergency personnel by sliding the button forward, although these systems may only be compatible with some models that support vibrating mechanisms. For those patients who have an easier time remembering to press the button (or remembering to repress the button) for an emergency medical situation, many medical alert systems provide "panic button" functionality. This feature is great for those patients whose power has gone out or for those who are in a wheelchair or otherwise unable to get to their phone during an emergency situation.
It is important for families to understand the importance of regularly maintaining medical alert systems. In the event of a medical emergency, having a personal emergency response system on hand can mean the difference between life and death. Most medical centers will have a trained care specialist on staff who can take over if the patient cannot respond or talk coherently. The trained care specialist will know the best way to go about contacting the appropriate medical facilities. If a family member who is staying home cannot make it to the emergency room or a physician on their own, the medical alert systems can help.
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