We all have heard countless stories of families who had someone fall who could not get to a telephone to summon help. It is heartbreaking to think of your loved one lying in pain for hours unable to call for help. Although it is hard to prevent an emergency from occurring it isn't always the emergency itself that causes the debilitating injuries, but the fact that the wounded party lies unattended for long stretch of time. For this very reason, Medical alert systems have been highly recommended by doctors, hospitals and healthcare professionals.

Statistics have proven falls in and around the home are a prime cause of severe injuries and hospitalizations in people 65 and older.
* One in three Americans over 65 will fall this year.
* Falls are the number one cause of accidental death.
* The majority of falls happen at home during common activities.
* Two-thirds will fall again within six months.
* 40% of nursing home admissions involve a previous injurious fall.
* The number and severity of falls increase with a person's age.
* With quick response time, recovery time can be quicker and hospital stays shorter.

Response Time is Critical

The first hour after an emergency takes place is known as the "golden hour", where it is essential to get assistance quickly and to possibly avoid long-term injuries from such things as falls, stroke or hear attack, head trauma and broken hips.

Maintains Well being
A study done by the AARP on medical alert systems has shown that seniors who have a medical alert system in place remain living independently at their home 5-6 years longer than a senior who does not wear the med alert button.

Being able stay where they have lived most of their lives and have the comfort of things they have around them has a dramatic effect on seniors' mental and physical health.

The System Equipment:

A medical alert system consists of a med alert button that is worn on the wrist or around the neck. When the button is pressed, the medical alert system sends a signal to a base station in the home that alerts the monitoring center that there is and emergency. Within seconds, an operator will respond over the two way speaker, assess the situation and contact a loved one or the proper authorities. Emergency help will be dispatched if needed.

Factors to Consider:

There many factors to consider when looking into a medical alert system. These include the monthly price, the equipment's price, the charge for installation, and the contract options.

More Considerations Might Include

The company's response time, testimonials from other users, the training undergone by the operators who are responding the patients, and the contingency plans in cases of system failure. Some patients may be difficult to handle. If your loved one may well be part of this category, then ensure that the alarm company will really offer you the best and patient service.

Final Thoughts:

For your loved ones who live alone, becoming unable to get help when needed is a scary event, which would usually marks the end of their ability to live independently. A reliable medical alert system can significantly lessen the occurrence of anyone becoming helpless and provide the family peace of mind that help is at the touch of a button.