< BACK >
Research studies show a medical alert system can save your life.
How can a medical alert system help you? Over the years, research studies carried out by respected scientific researchers and medical publications, such as the New England Journal of Medicine, have concluded that people, especially the elderly, who experience a sudden fall or a major medical emergency, and don’t receive immediate emergency assistance, are at serious risk of incapacitation or premature death.
Falling is one of the most problematic events for a senior living alone, as well as for those who suffer from medication side effects, diabetes, epilepsy, or nervous and muscular disorders. A serious fall can lead to major life changes, including a loss of confidence, a fear of going out, and a loss of personal independence. Consider these facts:
| • |
More than one third of adults ages 65 and older fall each year.
|
| • |
Of those who fall, 20% to 30% suffer moderate to severe injuries such as hip fractures or head traumas that reduce mobility and independence, and increase the risk of premature death. |
| • |
A study of fall victims reveals that 67% of those who fell and remained helpless on the floor for more than 72 hours without getting assistance suffered premature death, compared to only 12% who were helpless for less than one hour. |
With a medical alert system installed in the home, emergency assistance can be summoned immediately in the event of a fall. This allows a person to take advantage of medicine’s “Golden Hour,” in which a patient’s chances of a good outcome are increased by receiving treatment within the first hour of being stricken.
(Hornbrook 1994; Hausdorff 2001)
(Sterling 2001)
(New England Journal of Medicine 1996)
Important Safety Tips
Follow these helpful hints to fall proof your home and lifestyle:
| 1. |
Begin a regular exercise program.
| |
Exercise is one of the most important ways to reduce the chances of falling. It makes a person stronger and feel better. Exercises that improve balance and coordination are the most helpful. |
|
| 2. |
Have health care providers review prescriptions.
| |
Home health care providers, physicians or pharmacists should be asked to review your medications. As people get older, some medicines work differently in the body. Some medications, or combinations of medicines, can make any person feel drowsy or light-headed — which can lead to a fall. |
|
| 3. |
Have your vision checked.
| |
An eye doctor should check your vision to see if you are wearing the wrong prescription or have a condition like glaucoma or cataracts that limit vision. Poor vision increases the risk of falling. |
|
| 4. |
Make your home safer.
| • |
Remove things that can be tripped over, like throw rugs and clutter |
| • |
Use non-slip mats in the tub and shower |
| • |
Put grab bars next to the toilet and in the tub or shower |
| • |
Install handrails on both sides of stairways |
| • |
Improve lighting throughout the home |
| • |
Wear shoes with good support and non-slip soles |
|
< BACK >
|