You face many challenges as your parents get older. You may want to add a little insurance and protection for them around the home. However, they are often reluctant to make small lifestyle changes. You know how medical alert devices can provide quick access to help in case of a fall or emergency.
But it may not be easy to convince your parents to start using one, even when you know it can provide increased independence to your loved one and peace of mind for you and other family members. Your parents can even avoid conversations about Wireless Medical Alert Systems and come up with objections.
Fears and Concerns of Wireless Medical Alert Systems
It is important to be aware of their fears and concerns before forcing them to use a medical alert system. Here are some examples:
They say they don’t need it.
Your parent may be healthy and active. But the fact is that 33 percent of elderly fall. The chances increase with a chronic condition.
A medical alert device is a safety measure. It is like a seatbelt; we don’t always need it but it can be a lifesaver. We always buckle up.
They can’t afford it.
Adding up to the monthly budget can be difficult, particularly for those who are on a tight budget. But inability to access help in case of an accident or fall can lead to medical complications resulting in increased medical expenditure coming from a prolonged stay in hospital and care costs.
Though there is a cost associated with a medical alert system, it is a fraction of the costs that could be incurred without it.
The cell phone is enough to call for emergency help.
Mobile phones are not enough. A phone might not be reachable when a fall occurs. It can even have a dead battery.
Using a wireless medical alert system is more reliable. Your parents wear a button that is waterproof and always accessible – even in the bathroom where falls are most common. Features like automatic fall detection signals for help even if your loved one is not able to push the button.
Your parent does not like wearing a medical alert device.
They really mean that they feel embarrassed and don’t like to show people that they are weak or rely on devices for help.
Show them how they can wear devices under their clothes. Modern medical alert systems come in the form of smartwatches like MedicSignal and nobody would even come to know you are wearing a personal emergency response system.
Choose a good location and talk to your parents in an empathetic tone about getting a personal medical alert system and its benefits. If your parent has ever fallen, been diagnosed with a condition, or is weak, discuss with them the protection such a device can offer.
Strategies to Convince Your Parents
Here are some strategies to convince your parents to use a medical alert system to continue living alone independently.
Keep it Simple
Elderly people hate complicated things. In fact, we never use something like a user manual that is not easy to use. Though they don’t look as attractive as an iPhone, medical alert systems are really simple to install and use. Explain to your parents how easily they can be plugged in. Show them how pushing the button connects them to the operator on the speakerphone.
Tell them it is for You
This is a great strategy. You can tell your parents that you know they are healthy and don’t need such a device. But knowing that you have a backup plan will give you and your siblings peace of mind.
Once you have convinced your elderly parent about purchasing a wireless medical alert for their protection and safety, it is time to decide which product suits your situation the best. With the advancement in technology, the range of options has grown and modern systems include newer features like fitness trackers, well-being monitors, fall detection, and movement sensors. When deciding on the medical alert system, start by analyzing your parent’s needs and abilities – for now and for the future. You can always get a free trial for any of the devices so that you and your parent can see if it works right.
Choosing a Medical Alert System
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a medical alert system for your parents.
Features
The most important thing you want a medical alert device to do is to connect your parent to an emergency response center when the button is pressed. Fall detection is another feature to look for. You can choose additional features like GPS tracking, medical monitoring, fitness tracking, activity monitoring, daily check-ins, home security monitoring, and more.
Type of Equipment
See if the device you are considering is wearable and comfortable. It should also be attractive enough for your loved one to be willing to use it. Check for a waterproof design so that you can ensure protection for your parent in bathroom areas. Enquire about the distance the device operates from the base unit.
See if it has GPS so that it works wherever the person goes. Also, check if it connects to a smartphone through Bluetooth. The device should be high-quality and have a good battery backup. The charging method and battery indication should also be checked. If the device is mobile and allows connecting with family members, it is a plus.
Response and Monitoring
The medical alert device you consider for your parents should offer a good response time. Check if the company offers its own response center and whether it is certified and the operators are trained and communicate in the language your parent uses. Ensure that the customer service is available 24/7.
Cost
Look for a provider with no hidden charges and a complicated pricing structure. You should also make sure they don’t engage you in long-term contracts. Choose a service that charges only monthly fees which range between $25 and $45 per month. Look for a money-back guarantee or a trial period and the ability to cancel the subscription at any time without penalties. You can also ask for discounted prices for multiple people in the same house.
Do online research to find out which companies serve your area in the best way. Once you select a system, monitor how it works for your parent. This will make sure they are really protected and backed up in case of emergencies.
