Falls or medical emergencies can happen unexpectedly. And the repercussions of medical emergencies like falls can be truly life-changing. The results of a serious fall or medical emergency can range from serious pain/bruising to a hospital visit and complete loss of independence. Without immediate attention, the odds of getting back to your normal daily routine worsen. Medical alerts play a pivotal role in safeguarding seniors and individuals living with disabilities, providing crucial assistance during emergencies. Amidst the array of options available, we believe that Victoria Lifeline shines as a premier choice, offering tailored services, advanced technology, and an unwavering commitment to user safety through our partnership with Lifeline Canada.

What is a medical alert?

A medical alert is a specialized device or system designed to provide immediate access to emergency assistance at the push of a button. It typically consists of a wearable pendant or bracelet with a button that you can press and be connected to a 24/7 emergency response centre. This provides the subscriber with quick and easy access to help, which is important for seniors or individuals with medical conditions.

Medical alert buttons that connect you to a trained response centre associate are a better choice as they can quickly triage the situation and send paramedics if the fall or medical emergency is severe. If the situation does not require EMS, but the individual still needs help, the response centre will call select individuals designated as ‘responders’ first. Access to the response centre gives the subscriber the opportunity to immediately connect with a friendly and helpful voice during a time of possible stress or panic.

When should you get a medical alert device?

Simply put, seniors who are experiencing difficulties with their day-to-day mobility and balance or individuals with a history of chronic medical conditions that increase their risk of an emergency could benefit greatly from a medical alert service. This list can also be expanded to typically healthy individuals who are recovering from an operation or other medical procedure. As for the question of “when should somebody get it?” The answer is always going to be BEFORE a major incident. Prolonged lie times are directly correlated to the severity of the aftermath associated with a fall or medical emergency. The faster you can get help, the better off you will be. Like insurance, a medical alert device should be thought of as a preventative measure in case of an incident to minimize the negative consequences. 

Are emergency response buttons just for seniors?

Though medical alert systems are often associated with older adults, they are not the only group who can benefit from a help button. Medical Alert buttons like Lifeline are a great option for anybody who is experiencing compromised independence, even if it is temporary like (but not limited to) individuals recovering from a medical procedure, or living with limited mobility or a chronic condition. A medical alert service can also provide peace of mind to families and caregivers while also providing an extra layer of protection 24/7.

Do medical alert systems require in-home Internet services?

Medical alert systems operate independently of Internet service - they typically utilize a cellular network connection or a telephone landline to establish communication with the monitoring centre for access to emergency services without reliance on Internet services. This autonomous setup provides round-the-clock coverage and swift response times, offering peace of mind to users regardless of their location* or internet availability.

Do medical alert systems work outside of the home?

Many devices these days work outside of the home within a certain range of the communicator unit. The range largely depends on where you live and the device you use. This is important as you would want protection when performing tasks like gardening in the summer or clearing snow and taking the garbage out in the winter. You want to be protected in the case of a fall no matter what you are doing at home.

There are also options for individuals who spend a good chunk of time outside of the home. Whether they have daily commitments or want to continue living a full and independent life. Medical alert options like our On the Go utilize advanced technology, including GPS and cellular connections, enabling seamless operation outdoors. Whether users are taking a stroll, running errands, or visiting friends and family, these systems offer continuous protection and access to emergency assistance*. Mobile help buttons support individuals who want to maintain their active lifestyle while having the peace of mind that help is just a button press away. Thus, medical alert systems empower users with the freedom to venture outside their homes while staying securely connected to immediate aid in times of need.

Why a medical alert over just a phone or smartwatch?

Choosing a dedicated medical alert system over relying solely on a phone or smartwatch is a strategic decision rooted in tailored emergency response capabilities. While phones and smartwatches offer various functionalities, dedicated medical alert systems are built purposefully for swift, efficient emergency response. Devices like the ones Victoria Lifeline offers are designed to summon help in urgent situations for immediate communication with a dedicated and trained response centre associate. 

Unlike general-purpose devices, medical alert systems prioritize rapid response, offering direct access to trained professionals at the press of a button or automatic detection of a fall, without navigating through menus or applications. When a fall or medical emergency occurs, you don’t want to be in a place where navigating the user interface of a device causes you unnecessary stress or frustration. It is also a great option for older adults who may struggle with newer technologies like smartwatches and phones. Additionally, medical alert systems often include features like fall detection, GPS tracking, longer battery life and waterproof designs, enhancing their efficacy in emergencies.

This article is meant to be informational and should not replace the advice of a trained healthcare professional. What works for some individuals, might be harmful to others. Consult a professional before making any significant changes. *Fall Detection does not detect 100% of falls. If you are able to, always press the button you are wearing if you need help.  Undetectable falls can include a gradual slide from a seated position – such as from a wheelchair – which may not register as a fall. On the Go relies on cellular network availability.  Lifeline may not always be able to determine your location. 

Blog by: Maor Tsitrin, Marketing & Communications Assistant