A medical alert system can save your life, but only if you know exactly how the system works. It all starts with deciding on which type of medical alert system is the right fit for you: traditional in-home unit, GPS, fall detection option.
Once you’ve settled on the right system for you, it’s time to figure out how you want to wear your medical alert system device. Wearing it properly will ensure that help is always on the way when you need it.
Pendant
Traditional neck pendants are quite popular with seniors because they are easy and comfortable to wear, not to mention, they ensure your emergency button is always within reach.
If you’re a bit embarrassed by your medical alert pendant, consider wearing it underneath your shirt. The button is always within reach, but it’s not attracting the attention of visitors in your home or other people if you’re out and about with a GPS unit.
If the look of the medical alert pendant is what bothers you, consider jazzing up your pendant with a stylish lanyard. Some medical alert systems, like LifeFone, allow you to purchase decoratively beaded lanyards when you place your order. Other systems don’t have that option, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck! There is a wide variety of beautiful, fun, and funky lanyards out there that work perfectly well with all medical alert pendants. You could even make your own, if you have trouble finding one you like.
Wristband
Although traditional neck pendants are popular, they are still a hassle for some to deal with. If you don’t want to deal with the trouble of a dangling neck pendant, consider a wristband instead.
The wristband option is especially popular with male seniors, as many men are used to the feeling of a watch but have never worn a necklace. The added bonus of a wrist pendant is that it’s much more unassuming than a neck pendant. Upon first glance, it looks just like a watch! Because it sits securely on the wrist, it’s also much easier for some seniors to find in an emergency situation.
Belt clips
For some, wearing any kind of jewelry is uncomfortable, whether it’s around the neck or around the wrist. But, if you’re used to wearing a belt, a belt clip might be the best choice for you.
Emergency buttons can sometimes be ordered as belt clips. You just have to make sure that the belt clip doesn’t accidentally fall off, which mean this type of pendant isn’t usually as dependable as the neck pendant or wristband. For some GPS systems, the main unit can be clipped to the belt but you have to wear a separate pendant. If it’s important for you not to wear a pendant or wristband, make sure you look for a medical alert system that’s all-in-one.
In your purse
If you choose a GPS system that can be taken with you everywhere you go, you may consider storing the GPS device in your purse. However, this method does have risks. If you arrive at your destination and put down your purse, but you forget to take out your device, you won’t have access to the emergency services that you’re paying for. In addition, if your purse is a bit messy, you probably won’t be able to find the device in an emergency! Only choose this method if you plan to keep your purse with you the entire time, and your purse is relatively clean and tidy.
You also have to be careful about putting the medical alert device in your pocket. Not only can it be hard to reach in an emergency, you may accidentally push the button and not even know it. This method is best avoided, but if you must put it in your pocket, opt for a shirt or jacket pocket instead of your pants pocket.
With so many ways to wear a medical alert device, there’s no excuse not to give one a try! Browse our best medical alert systems to find one that is right for you.
