Understanding how medical alarms work

Vulnerable people or those who live at home with a medical condition may require help at any given point, and it might not always be easy for them to contact the right people to make this happen. A medical alarm can be the solution, keeping them only a call away from assistance if required

Some people who live with the daily challenges associated with a medical condition could require assistance at any given point. However, making the relevant people aware of this could be difficult. So, how does a medical alarm work, and could you benefit from having one in your home?

 Medical alarms, also referred to as personal alarms, provide people with access to help from a family member or medical response unit all through the click of a button. They are invaluable pieces of equipment, especially for those who cannot predict when a medical incident is going to occur, or similarly, during a sudden flare up.

They are used by many elderly residents, who may live alone or in a challenging environment such as high-rise flats or poorly connected locations with limited transport links. When activated, they use radio signals to transmit an alert to the receiver, who can then action the call with the relevant response. A medical alert necklace or bracelet can have a big impact on those who live alone, as it provides a quick and easily accessible call for assistance. The standard medical alert system is a great way to guarantee peace of mind for both the user, and the receiver of the alert, and it can be vital in dealing with an urgent situation.

Typically, the medical alert system will be battery powered, with a single charge offering between 30 and 72 hours of power, depending on the model. Once charged up, they are ready to be used, and will always be in easy reach as they’re worn by the person. Connectivity is either via landline or mobile, enabling the user to communicate with the receiver just as if they were making a phone call. Medical alarms usually include a physical docking station alongside the smaller, worn device, which through advanced technology, uses GPS tracking to provide a precise location of the person seeking assistance. A popular feature in some medical alert devices is a fall detector, which can raise the alarm automatically when an accident has been monitored by the system. There are also options in some medical alert models to set an alarm which reminds the user to take a certain medication, which is a great way to allow an elderly person to feel independent in looking after themselves.

A medical alarm can be a vital port of call for anyone experiencing difficulties which they feel need either medical attention or help from a friend or relative. They are also a means of providing treatment to the person effected, in the comfort of their own homes. The NHS is experiencing a bed-blocking crisis, which is found to cost the health service an astounding £3billion per year. By treating people in their homes, a less-daunting environment where they feel safe, hospital beds are freed up for those in need. Medical alert systems are an effective solution for assuring the user that help can always be sought when necessary.

Sources:

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/products/mobility-and-independence-at-home/personal-alarms/

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/975040/plan-to-end-bed-blocking-crisis-costing-NHS-billions