TED-2015-02-11 – Medical Alert Systems update




The Elder Divide show

Summary: Medical Alert Systems update After going to International CES 2015 and seeing some of the newest systems I thought this category should be updated. Some had new features that have been added to and some are new systems that are now available. I will list the top ones, new features and references for 2015 Medical Alert Systems. One thing to remember is do your research before you buy as things like monthly fees and if the device will meet your needs are very important. Using information on what to look for and top features can help you avoid mistakes. Get help with this from your doctor, family or local adult community center if needed. Based on your home, apartment or other living conditions you might want a basic, home or mobile system. Even Premium system available. The newest mobile systems today use cellular connectivity and have various levels of features and cost also. These are probably the best if you are still mobile and drive or travel away from home frequently. You might also be a family member shopping for your loved one. Whoever is looking for one, just enjoy life and the freedom it can bring. Top 5 Features today: - Necklace pendant or wristband. - Small and compact. Easy to use. - Waterproof. Speakerphone. Battery life or rechargeable. Location service like GPS. - Contract Opt-Out features. Refund options. - Options for call center, 911, family, friend list or caregiver contact. What to look for in a system: - 24 hour Call Center information like response time for assistance, location of center, certified training. Wait time. - DIY or professional installation of a system. Continued support of system and does this cost extra. - Cellular, Internet or Phone Line connection. - Leased or owned system. - Monthly or Yearly costs. - End of life requirement for ownership or return of system. - Fall, GPS and other detection built-in. - Range from base or no limit cellular system. - Additional services, like reminders. - VOIP or DSL system integration if you have this. This should help you look for and purchase that system you might need. Remember these are not just for Elders only, anyone with a medical condition might need these type of devices. Avoid long term contracts as you never know when you might need to change or discontinue service. Things can change rapidly at elder ages. Do your homework and avoid SCAMS. There are bad people out there calling you to offer FREE systems or some kind of bonus offer for getting it that day. "My rule of thumb is only purchase something or give your information out to someone you call, NOT an unsolicited caller especially if you do not know who and where they are!" My top recommended systems are as follows: <a href="http://www.onkol.net" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">OnKöl</a> available soon. Simple and cellular home based system with lots of features. See my previous podcast review <a href="http://elderdivide.com/2014/12/15/ted-podcast-extras-onkol/" target="_blank">audio</a>. <a href="http://www.mobilehelp.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">MobileHelp</a> with both base and mobile systems. See TPN.tv review <a href="http://tpn.tv/2015/01/28/mobilehelp-gives-anyone-a-connected-home-monitoring-safety-system/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">video</a>. <a href="http://www.greatcall.com/products/greatcall-splash" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Greatcall Splash</a> cellular, waterproof, GPS, two way communication, wireless charger, small, clip-on, certified agents 24/7 and mobile. References: <a href="http://www.consumersadvocate.org/medical-alerts/best-medical-alerts" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">10 Best Medical Alerts</a> by Consumers Advocate. <a href="http://www.theseniorlist.com/2015/01/2015-recommended-medical-alert-systems/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">2015 Recommended Medical Alert Systems</a> by The Senior List. <a href="http://medical-alert-systems-review.toptenreviews.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">2015 Best Medic...</a>