Ar-Cad

  The assumption many go through life with is; although aging is inevitable, they will never be in a position of helplessness. Perhaps it is the comforting effect of this denial that makes pushing it to the corners of ones mind along with the possibility of death itself so tempting, but losing control of ones body is something every person will face eventually. Losing control over ones body, however, does not have to come at the cost of ones independence. The human need (particularly in ‘do-it-yourself’ capitalist societies) to maintain ones independence is why medical alarms have become increasingly popular and thus more affordable among elderly populations.

                The difference between a medical alarm and a medical alert service is often blurred in articles relating to the matter. This is due to the fact that medical alarms are often the largest benefit to purchasing a medical alert service and are thus often used interchangeably.  The alarm needs to be attached to a landline of some sort, which comes with a wireless transmitter to be worn on ones person. The landline will be programmed to contact a wide range of emergency contact numbers when the button on the wireless transmitter has been pressed. Most systems will allow for a large number of programmable contacts, including a default ‘911’ call. Some medical alarms will automatically dial both an emergency contact followed by ‘911’, and if one contact is not answering, the system will make its’ way through the list. Even after an ambulance is dispatched using the automatic calling feature, family members will continue to receive calls. This is in the interest of both the family members, and the person in need. Systems are made this thorough with the knowledge that even a few minutes could mean the difference between life and death.

                In addition to medical alarms, alert systems are becoming increasingly wide ranging to deal with the various dangers that can present themselves in a home. For example, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are both used to respond to environmental stimulus that could prove deadly to members of the household. These alarms operate on the same basis as medical alarms; sending an emergency response signal that can trigger a monitoring station and contact needed emergency professionals.  Additionally, there are activity monitors, and fall detectors available. The first senses a lack of movement in ones home (the length of time is pre-set) and contacts the monitoring center that help is needed. The latter can come with a device around ones waist or a pressure sensitive mat placed below a location one is most likely to fall from (like a bed).

                As can be seen, the types of medical alarms vary, and they can be as basic or as sophisticated as they need to be, based on ones needs.  Before purchasing an alarm, take the time to do the research; for a resource on how to do this visit this website.