Types of medical alert providers
Medical alert systems can make a world of difference. When you have an unexpected medical emergency, a medical alert service could provide crucial assistance, regardless if you live alone. Once you press the help button, the system acts so seniors are aided as quickly as possible. It’s an ingenious system and there are many types of medical alert providers. So, what types of medical alert providers are there, and how can you determine which is right for you?
Monitored and Non-Monitored Medical Alert Providers
There are many types of medical alert providers but you’ll more likely choose between a monitored or non-monitored provider. There are, of course, differences between them, including:
- Equipment
- Costs
- Who’s Alerted During an Emergency
For instance, a non-monitored service provides you with the equipment but doesn’t monitor any emergency calls. On the other hand, a monitored service provides the equipment and monitors any emergency button presses. You’ll be connected to the provider’s monitoring call center and speak with a representative. They’ll then establish what’s happened and contact a family member or the necessary authorities on your behalf.
Traditional In-Home Medical Alert Providers
This type of provider specializes in at-home systems. An at or in-home system can be particularly useful for any senior or vulnerable person if they have a fall. If no-one is there to offer assistance, they can press the wearable button or call out to the voice-activated alert system. It will instantly get the necessary help to you. Traditional in-home medical alert providers remain popular as seniors are vulnerable in the home. And, users can use them regardless if they have a medical condition or otherwise.
On-the-Go Medical Alert Providers
Some providers specifically deal with on-the-go or mobile medical alert systems. These providers are ideal for seniors who need extra assistance while out and about. On-the-go providers are more modern because of mobile technology but are incredibly popular. These providers offer wearables that can conveniently sit around the neck or wrist. And, they’re more suited to active seniors.
The All-In-One Provider
There is also the option of an all-in-one provider. These medical alert providers tend to have a varied service and can offer both monitored and non-monitored services. They will also have in-home systems that can be connected by a landline or through a cellular network. And, may have different on-the-go devices and extras, such as automatic fall detection, medication reminders, and smoke detection.
What’s The Best Medical Alert Provider?
It would be easy to say monitored providers offer a better service than non-monitored, but that isn’t always true. In some cases, a monitored provider and their services will work better for one home than it would in another. And, the same goes for non-monitored. Determining the best comes down to what you actually need or want.
For instance, you live with your daughter, her children, and partner. There is always someone home and you don’t go out alone much. You may be more suited for a non-monitored system. You could opt for a device that is programmed to alert your daughter or her partner should you have a medical emergency while they’re out. Then again, if you live alone, you may prefer a monitored provider.
Costs will vary too so it’s about what works best for you.
Every Provider Differs Slightly
It’s important to remember that not all medical alert providers offer the same service as the next. For instance, one provider might exclusively offer mobile or on-the-go services. If you need an at-home system, that’s probably not the provider for you. Even if you wanted an on-the-go system, you still have to look at the provider in closer detail. Some may offer additional services, such as automatic fall detection. While you mightn’t have considered it at first, it’s something to think about, nonetheless.
However, if you jump into making a decision, you could miss out on valuable services you need. Medical alert providers vary considerably, even when they fall into the same category or niche. It’s somewhat confusing but important to consider. You, ideally, have to compare several providers so you can find the right one.
Top Tips for Choosing a Medical Alert Provider
- Think about the Costs
- Quality of Equipment and Service
- Compare
While there are a few different types of medical alert providers available, it’s easier when you know a few things about selecting the right one. And, it may be wise to learn more about each type of provider so that you have an idea of where to start the search. For instance, if you wanted a non-monitored system, you’d be able to start searching in that general direction. You could then narrow the options down by comparing them with other similar providers. By learning about non-monitored services, you can decide if it’s for you.
It’s important to take a moment to think about what you really need in a medical alert provider. For example, do you need a complete package for the home, on-the-go, as well as smoke or carbon dioxide detection? Or, do you just want something when you’re home alone? A lot of seniors opt for a quality service they don’t use. You don’t want to pay for added extras that never get used.
For example, you don’t need a package suitable for a five-bed home if you lived in a one-bed apartment. It’s important to think about why you’re investing in a medical alert system so the right device – and provider – can be found.
The Joy of Medical Alert Providers
Medical alert systems often leave you in two minds. It’s easy to see why so many would turn away from them because they don’t want – or believe – they need these services. Unfortunately, more and more seniors need help from time-to-time. Fortunately, medical alert providers can provide the answer in the form of medical alert systems. And, they can be useful no matter if you live alone or with family. Medical alert services provide a safety net for an immediate response should you fall or feel unwell while alone.