Medical Alert Buttons
If you have a loved one who is elderly or mobility challenged, then you might strongly consider getting them a medical alert button. This is a great way to help them maintain their independence. At the same time, you will have peace of mind in knowing that your loved on can call for help whenever they need it. And if your loved one already has a security system, then it is very likely that their is a compatible medical alert device available.
The typical medical alert button is kept on one's person at all times. It might be worn as a lanyard around the neck or around the wrist as a bracelet. Either way, the medical alert button is always quickly accessible if needed. It will not get in the way of your loved one's usual activity, and they will feel comfortable in knowing that it is right there. If your loved one experiences a fall or other accident, then they will be able to get help as quickly as possible.
Medical alert buttons are very easy to use. The first thing to do is to enroll the medical alert button with the security system. The device will occupy a zone on the system just like pretty much any other wireless sensor. Then instruct your loved on to keep it on their person at all times. Many medical alert buttons are water-resistant so that they can even be brought in the bath or shower. The only time your loved one should remove it is when they are sleeping. This is because they could potentially roll over and activate the sensor accidentally.
Your loved one should get into the routine of wearing the medical alert button at all times. An end user will typically keep it on their nightstand while they are asleep so that it is easily accessible in the morning. Then they put it on once they wake up. Remember that the device can be activated from anywhere that is within wireless range of the security system. This will normally cover the entirety of a house. If the property is very large, then a wireless repeater may be a good idea.
If you loved one intends on bringing the medical alert button with them where ever they go, then you may want to turn off RF supervision for the device. This is important to do if your loved one will continue to wear the medical alert button while they are away from home. Although they will not be able to activate the sensor away from home, it can be a good habit for them to keep the sensor on their person during those times.
Activating a medical alert button is very easy. However, these sensors typically have false alarm prevention measures put into place to prevent any accidental activations. You usually need to press and hold the button for multiple seconds in order to it to activate. Make sure your loved one understands that they know how to activate their medical alert button in the event of an emergency.