Getting older doesn’t mean giving up on the things we love about life. However, it is a common situation for many seniors to find themselves stuck at home, not necessarily because they don’t want to go out, but because they think, “What if something happens to me when I go out, and I need help?” This is certainly a troubling dilemma and affects millions of individuals who simply want to live their lives.
The good news is that technology is finally catching up to this very human need to be independent but safe. This modern safety technology has rapidly surpassed what are typically referred to as “lifeline” emergency buttons that existed in a box next to our beds for emergencies. These days, the delivery of modern safety devices is much more sophisticated, very portable, and developed to provide for our life no matter where life takes you.
When Home Isn’t Enough
Most often, people think about senior safety from a home-based environment and that makes sense because that is where we tend to stay. But what happens when I want to go visit family and friends or go out shopping or walk in the park? What happens then? If my only safety mechanism is home-based, it no longer provides the safety I am now seeking.
This is where the newer technology excels. Now wearables can provide more than one safety mechanism all at once. For instance, equipment can monitor my movement using sensors that can distinguish walking from a fall. There is also GPS, so no matter where I am, help can find me. Some systems even monitor vital signs and detect medical emergencies before they become life threatening. Many families have discovered that having a gps tracker for elderly to help with falls provides the type of all-around security that allows everybody to let out a little sigh of relief. These devices don’t just help you know that something happened (or is happening) – they will help you know exactly where it happened and that matters when every minute counts.
The technology that actually makes sense
What has made a difference in all of this is how much easier it is to ensure that a help device is useful. Do you recall the medical alert systems that had large buttons and confusing instructions? That era is pretty much done with.
Most of today’s high-tech safety technology looks like regular jewelry and like fitness trackers. Some devices fit in a pocket or clip onto clothing, and have small footprint. The ideal devices simply work, with no need for you to look for a button, or even remember to do something complicated like push the button to call for help when it needs to be done.
The battery life has improved to make a difference too. Many older adults can go more than a day depending on the device. Several devices can remind you to plug it into the charger before the battery runs out. So for your relative who might forget to plug it in and is out of battery power, that’s a great feature.
The voice activation has come quite a way too. Many of the better devices will get help with just asking for it, rather than finding or pushing a button. This thoughtful design feature works well for older adults who have arthritis, etc. affecting their fine motor function.
More Than Just Emergency Services
It is fascinating that these devices, which we refer to as safety technologies, can now do more than call for help. Many systems offer wellness and family connection functionality as well.
Some systems are now able to monitor daily activity and sleep patterns to provide seniors and their family members insights into health trends. Other devices provide reminders for medication, and will even recognize a change in a person’s routine, indicating to the family that there could be a medical issue occurring.
Interestingly, with location-sharing features, technology has become a popular safety device among seniors. Instead of feeling like a tracking device, these systems have offered reassurance to many seniors about checking in on them without having to call and ask “Where are you?” This prevents uncomfortable conversations about independence while providing peace of mind.
Another interesting feature that is showing up in many systems is advanced weather alerts and notifications that define a background-safe zone. In instance of a sudden weather event, the device will alert the family member. Likewise, if a senior with memory deficits strays outside of the pre-defined safe zone, family members receive alerts about whereabouts.
The Social Aspect of Technology
Another example of technology functioning in a way that is supportive of families is that these systems can now offer a social aspect, rather than isolating people, as many would think. When seniors feel secure about their safety and wellbeing, they’re more open to accepting invites and making plans.
Another growth opportunity with safety technology is that many devices can facilitate real-time two-way communications with the response center. This allows the person to convey in words to the response center what is happening (and is not happening) during an emergency. For many individuals, this communication is much better than doing nothing, lying on the floor, and wondering if anyone is coming.
Several devices have additionally evolved to encourage the coordination of community services with local resources. For instance, in the event of a fall, the response center could coordinate contact with local emergency services, family member, or health care professional in needs-aftercare follow up. These adjustments showcase a safety net of service that expands far beyond the emergency.
Choosing What Will Work
The reality is, there are so many variations in the options current offered in comparison to earlier generations. This would suggest there is something for almost everyone in terms of lifestyle or interest. Some people will prefer wearing a battery communications watch, while others prefer pendants. Some seniors want all functionality, while others are satisfied with basic after impact; as-formals.
Therefore, the question is what is going to be used for the desired purpose? A device that will sit sits in the drawer because it complicated or does not function for comfort, is likely not going to help anyway. Most organizations selling systems currently have trial periods or return for refund options that can take the pressure off making the right selection immediately.
Cost is also most likely much more reasonable compared to several years ago. Emergency response services may start at about on a monthly $30. The cost of GPS tracking based service are, on average, below $60 a month. When the savings compare to one ambulance ride or visit to the emergency room occur, further the service ultimately pays for itself very quickly.
The innovation keeps developing, but more impactful, we are at a point in history where we have better technology that supports more people. For seniors reaching for maintaining community and independence, finding security resource should be possible in safety systems.