How to Support Your Aging Parents in Choosing a Medical Alert System

As your parents age, ensuring their safety and well-being becomes a top priority. One effective way to provide them with peace of mind and quick access to help in emergencies is by choosing a reliable medical alert system. These systems can be lifesavers, providing immediate assistance at the touch of a button. With numerous options available, however, we know selecting the right medical alert system can be overwhelming. Let us share some practical steps to support your aging parents in making an informed decision during the National Medic Alert System Month that you can use now and throughout the year.

1. Understand their needs. Start by assessing your parents’ specific needs and preferences. Consider their medical conditions, mobility, and lifestyle. Do they require a system with fall detection? Do they prefer a wearable device or a home-based system? Understanding their unique requirements will help narrow down the choices and find a system that fits their needs.
2. Research your options. There are various types of medical alert systems available, including in-home systems, mobile systems, and systems with GPS tracking. In-home systems are suitable for those who spend most of their time at home, while mobile systems are ideal for active seniors who are often out and about. Research different brands and models, and compare their features, reliability, and user reviews.
3. Evaluate the features. When evaluating medical alert systems, pay attention to key features such as:

• Ease of use. The device should be simple for your parents to operate.
• Range. For in-home systems, ensure the range covers their entire living area.
• Battery life. Look for systems with long-lasting batteries and clear indicators for low battery.
• Water resistance. Choose a device that can be worn in the shower or bath if necessary.
• Response time. Check the average response time of the monitoring center.

4. Consider the costs. Medical alert systems come with varying costs, including equipment fees, monthly monitoring fees, and additional charges for extra features. Determine your budget and compare pricing plans. Some systems offer discounts for long-term contracts or bundle deals. Ensure you understand all the costs involved and choose a system that provides good value for money.
5. Read reviews and testimonials. Customer reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the reliability and performance of different medical alert systems. Look for reviews from other families who have purchased systems for their elderly loved ones. Pay attention to feedback on customer service, ease of use, and the responsiveness of the monitoring center.
6. Test the system. Once you have shortlisted a few options, consider testing the systems. Some companies offer trial periods or money-back guarantees. Testing the system will allow your parents to get comfortable with its operation and ensure it meets their needs. It is also an opportunity to check the responsiveness of the monitoring center in real-life scenarios.
7. Involve your parents in the decision. Involving your parents in the decision-making process is crucial. Encourage them to express their preferences and concerns. Discuss the features and benefits of each option and let them try out the devices if possible. Their comfort and confidence in using the system are essential for its effectiveness.
8. Ensure proper installation and training. Once a medical alert system is chosen, ensure it is properly installed and your parents are trained to use it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and test the system to ensure it works correctly. Make sure your parents know how to use the device, including how to wear it, charge it, and what to do in an emergency.
9. Regularly review and update the system. Technology and your parents’ needs may change over time, so it is important to regularly review the effectiveness of the medical alert system. Check for software updates, new features, and changes in your parents’ health or lifestyle that may require an upgrade or different system.
10. Ensure their Florida estate plan is current. While helping your parents choose a medical alert system, it is also a good time to ensure their estate plan is current. Having an up-to-date estate plan, including a will, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, provides additional peace of mind. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney can ensure all legal documents are in place and reflect your parents’ wishes.

Supporting your aging parents in choosing a medical alert system is a meaningful way to enhance their safety and independence. By understanding their needs, researching options, evaluating features, and involving them in the decision, you can help them find a system that provides reassurance and quick access to help in emergencies. Additionally, ensuring their estate plan is current will provide comprehensive protection and peace of mind for the whole family.

While this article might ignite more questions, it serves as a stepping stone towards understanding the nuanced world of power of attorney in Florida. When your family or financial health is on the line, trust attorney Paul Riffel to help you protect your interests and achieve your goals. Attorney Paul Riffel has been practicing law in Florida for over 41 years, focusing in the areas of Tampa estate planning and  family law. We encourage you to contact us and schedule a meeting with us.