The elderly, especially individuals aged 65 and above, can benefit tremendously from a fall detection system or emergency alert system.
This is because seniors face huge risks related to their health and need to be able to call for help easily and fast.
A good fall detector is wearable (bracelet or pendant) and can recognize a slip or a fall automatically and alert a monitoring center that you need help. This happens even if you don’t call anyone. Thus, if you fall unconscious, help will arrive so you can get medical attention even when you are all alone.
As many seniors desire to continue to live in their own homes, a fall detection system will allow them the independence and comfort they want without compromising their safety.
FREE PERSONAL EMERGENCY ALERT FOR LOW-INCOME SENIORS
In Nova Scotia, the Personal Alert Assistance Program offers low-income seniors above 65, or those living with acquired brain injury 19 years old and above, financial assistance of up to $480 a year for a personal alert service.
This type of support emphasizes how experts and the government alike recognize the importance of an emergency alert system to the well-being of seniors and people living with a disability.
To start comparing fall detection systems in Nova Scotia, just fill out the form below and receive FREE and NO-OBLIGATION quotes.
What is a medical alert system with fall detection?
he leading cause of injury among the elderly in Canada is falls, with an estimated 30% having one or more falls annually. More than 30% of seniors admitted in hospitals for fall-related injuries subsequently go into long-term care after hospitalization.
Falls can result in reduced mobility, chronic pain, loss of independence, and death. These are frightening statistics but there is hope.
Studies show that immediate medical assistance after a fall can help to reduce the severe health consequences and prevent death. This is where medical alert systems with fall detection come in.
A medical alert system is a wearable device, usually in the form of a bracelet or a pendant that has a HELP button to push in case of an emergency. When the user pushes the panic button, a trained emergency agent responds via the communication system that is built into the device.
That’s right, no phone is needed to talk to a LIVE person to ask for help.
After assessing the situation quickly, the agent will send medical responders to your home within minutes to provide the help you need.
Falls do happen but they can be prevented. A medical alert system with fall detection gives an extra layer of support for seniors.
What is fall detection and how does it work?
Fall detection is an additional feature that can be added to a medical alert system. This technology detects falls automatically using built-in sensors that work with algorithms to distinguish a fall from normal movements. Data such as speed and height are evaluated by accelerometers to identify if a fall occurred.
When a senior is wearing a fall detector, an alert is automatically sent to a monitoring center after a fall. This happens even if the user fails to push the panic button because he is unconscious, disoriented, or unable to move.
Why is fall detection essential? Data shows that many seniors who experience a fall lie on the floor unconscious, hurt, or bleeding for hours, sometimes days, because they were alone and unable to call for help. This period of delay before medical assistance arrives can aggravate injuries and even cause death.
This is also one of the major reasons why many seniors have to move into assisted living facilities- they need to be assured that if something bad happens, someone will be there to help.
With fall detection, seniors can extend living independently without fear and their loved ones can have peace of mind.
Who needs a medical alert system or fall detector pendant?
Medical alert systems are recommended for older adults or seniors who live alone or have one or more health conditions that put them at risk.
A medical alert system or fall detection system is advisable for the following:
- Seniors living alone;
- Seniors with balance or mobility issues;
- Older adults with a history of falls or a fear of falling;
- Seniors with medical conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, stroke, heart conditions, etc.
- Individuals suffering from asthma, allergies, seizures, etc.
- Seniors taking medications with side effects like dizziness, nausea, etc.
- Individuals recovering from surgery or medical procedures.
Whether you stay at home most of the time or lead an active lifestyle, a medical alert system offers greater protection and easy access to emergency services.
With one press of a panic button, no matter where you are, you are instantly connected to emergency operators who are trained to handle any type of emergency.
For just a low monthly fee, you can enjoy complete protection with a medical alert system from our partners.
Compare fall detection systems in Nova Scotia by filling out a short online form on this page, free of charge!
Types of Medical Alert Systems
Now that you know the important benefits you can get from a medical alert system, it is time to find out what type of system will suit your needs.
Medical alert system companies offer a variety of solutions tailored to different needs, lifestyles, and budgets. Below are the most prevalent ones you can find on the market.
At-home medical alert systems (Basic)
These basic systems suitable for use inside the home are connected to a landline or cellular system. They include a console unit and a portable device (pendant, bracelet, or watch) with a panic button to press for emergency assistance.
This type of system is the cheapest type of plan and has a limited range (from 200 ft. to 600 ft.) Note that cellular systems are a bit more expensive than landline systems.
Mobile Systems/On-the-Go
Mobile medical alert systems offer greater protection because of their wider coverage. They can be used outside the home where there is cellular coverage. This means you can call for emergency assistance using your panic button wherever you are.
Mobile systems also offer other features for greater protection such as GPS tracking and geo-fencing which are useful for seniors who wander.
Fall detectors
Fall detection systems, whether at-home plans or mobile, cost a little more because of this added technology. A fall detector has the same features as basic and mobile plans. Users can still manually press the HELP button to call for emergency assistance. However, if an actual fall occurs, the fall detector will automatically send an alert to the monitoring center. This means that a senior who has fallen and cannot press the help button will have someone respond to the incident. An agent will try to contact the user through the built-in communication system to verify what happened and send appropriate help. If the user cannot be reached, help will be dispatched as quickly as possible.
Fall detectors are all-in-one systems. You don’t have to wear or carry a separate device for fall detection as your pendant will have your panic button with fall detection, GPS, medication reminder, and other features you choose!
Make aging at home possible for you or a loved one by finding the right medical alert system with fall detection using our short online form.
Is fall detection technology accurate?
If you are considering buying a fall detector for your protection, you may be wondering if fall detection technology is accurate. Is it worth buying a medical alert system with fall detection?
Many of these devices are said to be able to detect at least 85% of falls. Studies further show that a device worn close to the user’s center of gravity, specifically a pendant or necklace, has a higher level of accuracy.
Some medical alert systems claim 93% accuracy for fall detection. While it is not perfect, as most systems are, this high level of accuracy can provide seniors with a high level of protection and security in case of a fall.
False alerts are possible but they are easily canceled by the user by speaking to the agent to say you don’t need help or pressing the button twice.
False alerts or calls for help are not charged as they are included in the monthly service you pay for.
Medical alert systems can reduce the risk of long-term injury with early detection and monitoring. Prompt emergency response to any emergency can save your life!
The average cost of medical alert systems in Nova Scotia
You may already be convinced that you or a loved one needs a medical alert system. But how much does this device cost in Nova Scotia?
Below you will find the top medical alert systems to choose from and how much they cost, on average. Take note that the prices below may change, depending on the providers.
| Name of Company | Features | Cost of the device | Monthly Fees |
| Philip’s Lifeline | Waterproof device Select from HomeSafe, HomeSafe with Auto Alert, and GoSafe 24/7 access to emergency services Bracelet or pendant | None | The basic system is $42.95 ($89.95 installation fee) Additional $15 monthly to add fall detection to your plan Homesafe + AutoAlert ($57.95 per month) and GoSafe ($79.95 per month) |
| Direct Alert | The Direct Alert unit plugs directly into your phone line Waterproof emergency button included to be worn around the neck or on the wrist. The help button connects you immediately to a Direct Alert trained agent who can call emergency services or your contact person. Also offers panic buttons, fall detection, medication reminders, and GPS. | Equipment for purchase but no installation cost or activation fee | At-home systems cost $25/month. The Fall Detection series costs $35 a month. The On the Go plan is $55 a month. |
| Global Security | Offers the Numera Libris which boasts of the best fall detection technology. Waterproof pendant or bracelet Also offers a platform called EverThere for health monitoring | There is an equipment fee ($379.99), activation fee ($99.00) and a fee for the button itself ($79.00) | The basic system uses Lynx3000 and costs $34.99 with a 3-year fixed contract. (no fall detection) The Numera4000 costs $39.99 per month |
| SecurMedic | Waterproof. With a pendant & emergency bracelet. Informs user when the battery needs replacement. The console works for up to 24 hours when you run out of power. No Fall Detection, the user must press the panic button to call for help. | Equipment costs $198.95 | Monthly payment of $19.95, no contract required |
| Galaxy Medical Alert | Operating in North America for 25 years Six options for systems and available features at an extra charge Waterproof panic button User-friendly and easy to install | The device cost is free and included in the monthly plan $39.95 for an additional bracelet or pendant | Plans start at $29.95 a month up to $49.95 a month for the most sophisticated system. |
As you can see, there are various choices available to you so you can find the right system for the best price.
Fill out the short form below to receive actual quotes from medical alert systems companies in your area, free of charge!
Independent Living and Aging with the best Medical alert system
Are you worried about your safety as you get older and live alone in your home? Don’t be. With the right medical alert system, you can have access to emergency services 24/7 with one push of a button!
Whether you simply want more mobility with peace of mind or need reassurance that help is just seconds away, the best medical alert system or fall detector is available anywhere you are in Nova Scotia!
Depending on your current health or fitness level, you can compare landline or cellular systems for home use or to take with you wherever you go.
Our partner medical alert system providers and security companies will be happy to send you competitive offers so you can save time and money!
Just fill out the online form on this page to receive FREE and NO–OBLIGATION quotes for the best fall detectors and panic buttons today!
