Medical Alert Systems for Seniors Who Wander
Individuals prone to wandering are at higher risk for emergencies, such as falls, medical issues, or wandering. A medical alert system, like Lifeline Canada’s On the Go with Wandering, provides a direct line to emergency services, ensuring that help can be dispatched quickly if an incident occurs, and updates you on your loved one’s location around their home. This enhanced technology can be life-saving in many cases, reducing the severity of injuries and improving peace of mind for caregivers.
Features of Medical Alert Systems Beneficial for Seniors Who Become Disoriented
Medical alert systems are critically important for seniors prone to losing their sense of direction due to the unique symptoms and challenges these conditions present. Here are several key features that are beneficial for those who might wander:
Caregiver Notifications
While it is important for older adults to live as independently and autonomously as possible, caregivers of loved ones who wander need greater visibility into their whereabouts to ensure they are as safe as possible. When an individual leaves their home, On the Go with Wandering alerts a designated caregiver with an SMS text and link to an online map. Similarly, the caregiver will also receive an SMS text advising them when their loved one has returned back home.
Mapping Technology
Our mobile medical alert system, On the Go with Wandering, includes a mapping and tracking feature, which is particularly valuable for individuals prone to wandering. Caregivers can monitor the person’s location in real-time, greatly enhancing their ability to quickly find and assist the individual and prevent dangerous situations.
Fall Detection
Falls can happen anywhere at any time. Here are a few things that fall detection tools can offer:
- Automatic Fall Detection: Advanced medical alert systems come with automatic fall detection features. These devices can sense when a fall occurs and automatically alert emergency services if the individual is unable to press the button themselves. This is crucial as falls are a common and serious risk for people with cognitive impairments.
- Two-Way Communication: Lifeline Canada devices feature two-way communication, allowing the user to speak directly with our Personal Response Associates, who can contact EMS in case of a fall.
- Water Resistance: Devices that are water-resistant can be worn continuously, even in the shower, where the risk of falling is high.
In addition to the above, reviewing fall prevention techniques and resources can offer caregivers even more peace of mind when it comes to falls.
Wearability
Medical alert systems are offered in various wearable options to cater to different preferences and needs. These wearable devices are designed to be comfortable, discreet, and easy to use. Here are three of the most popular wearable options for medical alert systems:
Necklaces/Pendants
- Devices: HomeSafe with Fall Detection, On The Go with Wandering
- Design: These are worn around the neck on a lanyard or chain.
- Features: They usually have a central button for emergency alerts and can include fall detection sensors.
- Pros: Easily accessible, generally visible for quick use, and often include water-resistant designs for all-day wear.
- Cons:Some individuals may find wearing a pendant around their neck uncomfortable or cumbersome.
Bracelets/Wristbands
- Devices: HomeSafe
- Design: These are worn on the wrist like a watch or bracelet.
- Features: They also feature an emergency button and may include other functionalities.
- Pros: Comfortable for continuous wear, discreet, and less likely to be removed or forgotten.
- Cons: May not be suitable for individuals who have difficulties with wrist movements or dexterity issues
Significance of Fall Detection Devices for Seniors Who Wander
Some conditions are progressive in nature, which can increase the severity of wandering over time. Fall detection devices are essential for these individuals, providing crucial support as their condition progresses.
In the early stages, basic fall detection devices with an emergency button and automatic fall detection are important. These devices ensure immediate assistance in case of a fall, helping maintain independence and confidence. More advanced features, such as GPS tracking, are crucial for quickly locating individuals who may wander, while two-way communication allows direct contact with caregivers or emergency services.
Integration with Overall Care Plans
Medical alert systems play a crucial role in enhancing care plans for individuals prone to losing their sense of direction by integrating several key functionalities. These systems provide real-time tracking, enabling prompt intervention to manage wanderings and prevent potentially dangerous scenarios which could lead to hospitalizations. Alerts can be sent to family members and caregivers, who can choose to contact our 24/7 Personal Response Associates, which ensures prompt care in emergencies or changes in health.
The flexibility of adjustable settings enables customization of alert configurations, medication reminders, and monitoring parameters as the patient’s needs evolve. Importantly, medication reminders help patients adhere to prescribed schedules, reducing the risk of complications from missed doses, while caregivers can monitor medication adherence and address issues promptly.
Some medical alert systems can be integrated to support remote monitoring, which can be beneficial for those managing long-distance caregiving.
Ultimately, Lifeline Canada’s range of medical alert systems promotes independence for seniors in the earlier stages of wandering, ensuring individuals can live safely in their homes while having access to immediate assistance when necessary.
Choosing the Right System
Choosing the right medical alert system for someone in your life living prone to wandering is critical to ensuring safety and peace of mind. At Lifeline Canada, we understand the importance of finding a solution that fits your loved one’s lifestyle and specific needs.
Our range of medical alert devices includes advanced features like automatic fall detection, GPS tracking, and reliable two-way communication, providing reassurance that help is always available at the press of a button. Whether you’re seeking protection at home or on the go, our systems offer the flexibility and security you deserve as a caregiver.
Discover how our trusted devices, including On the Go with Wandering, can help your loved ones maintain a safe and active lifestyle. Connect with us to learn more today.
Learn More About Our Medical Alert Systems
Best for away from home
Mobile medical alert system with GPS gives you freedom to be safe while on the go.
| Use away or at home |
| Automatic Fall Detection |
| 5 Locating technologies |
Best for everyday use
Most compact design offering that provides around-the-clock access to help at the press of a button.
| Use away or at home |
| 5 Locating technologies |
| Two-way voice |
Best for wanderers
Allows you to track your loved one’s general location on your smartphone when they leave home.
| Has a tendency to wander |
| Gets lost easily |
| Gets confused in crowds |
Best for at home
Our most affordable system. Get access to help 24/7 at the push of a button.
| Use at home |
| Pendant or wristband |
| Two-way voice |
Best for at home fall detection
Can automatically call for help if it detects a fall.
| Use at home |
| Pendant |
| Automatic Fall Detection |