When it comes down to it, your medical alert system needs to be simple enough to operate in an emergency. Most devices follow the same design—a wearable button on your wrist or around your neck that connects to an intercom. The right system depends on the size of your home, your level of activity, and your level of independence.
If you’re out of the house often or a frequent traveler, you’ll need a GPS unit or other mobile device that won’t tie you down. Homebodies may also prefer a mobile system, or they may go with a simple pendant or wristband that connects to the base station.
You’ll also want enough equipment to fit your home. Add-ons like extra sensors can help, especially if you have multiple floors or a larger home. If you share a large house with others, you might not need as many sensors. But if more than one person needs a medical alert device, it’s smart to opt for more than one pendant or wristband to connect to the base station.
Add-ons like equipment warranties, automatic fall protection, and additional pendants or wristbands can also change the value and price of your medical alert system. While it’s smart to save money, you shouldn’t cheat yourself out of the help you may need. Extras like automatic fall detection don’t cost much and can save lives.