Medical Alert Systems

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Medical Guardian. All opinions are 100% mine.

Do you have older parents or grandparents who live alone?  If so, you probably know the feeling of terror that grips you when the phone rings at midnight.  I've heard from friends with elderly relatives about their concerns:

• Dad often falls and can't get up on his own
• Mom tripped on the stairs and injured herself
• Grandma slipped on the ice in the driveway, out of sight of the neighbors

What do you do when you have a loved one who wants to continue living independently, but may need emergency assistance?

One simple thing is to know the neighbors.  If my husband isn't able to get in touch with his mom by phone, he can call one of her neighbors to check on her.  Fortunately, I think we've only had to do that once, but it's comforting to have the option available.

Another is to learn about ways to prevent falls at home.  Here are a few tips (for everyone, not just the elderly), and you can read more at the Medical Guardian website:

• Talk to your doctor about preventing falls.  Have regular vision and hearing tests.
• Take prescription and over-the-counter medications correctly . Keep a medication record and review it regularly with your doctor. Tell your doctor if your medication makes you dizzy or lightheaded.
• Keep your floor and stairs free of clutter, and avoid the use of scatter rugs.
• Be sure to have at least one handrail (preferably two) on all stairways and steps in your home. Ensure handrails are securely attached and in good repair.
• Wear proper footwear. Shoes, boots and slippers should provide good support and have good soles.

Another step you can take is to invest in a medical alert system such as Medical Guardian.  This will allow your loved one to keep the emergency button within reach (on the neck, the belt, or the wrist); with it, he or she can call for help, at the touch of a button, in case of emergency.  If the Medical Monitoring Station receives a call, they are able to call emergency responders and also contact family members.  I can see how this would help to foster peace of mind for the entire family.