What Types of Medical Alarm Systems Are Available?

Medical alarm systems come in a wide variety of types suited to different needs, depending on whether they are for patients or carers, how mobile the user is, or how serious the illness.

One example of a medical alarm device is a small wireless voice pendant that can be worn as a necklace, or kept in the pocket. They are used in a wide range of situations, from elderly people living independently, for monitoring very young children, in retirement homes, or for people with serious medical conditions. This device can automatically place telephone calls with just one button push, answers numbers selected by the user, and allows for two-way communication between pendants. Therefore these devices are great for both the user and their carer.

Another common medical alarm system consists of a central control unit, and a small device containing an emergency button. They are small enough so that they can be worn on bracelets, key rings, or necklaces.  By simply pressing the emergency button, help can be summoned at any time of night or day.  A signal is sent from the wireless unit to the central control unit, which then contacts an emergency control centre. From there, the appropriate emergency services can be sent to the location, and other emergency contacts such as family and friends can be contacted as well. This type of system often has two-way communication so that the user can speak to the operator at the emergency centre after the emergency signal has been sent. The central unit is designed to automatically accept calls from the emergency centre, so even if the user cannot reach the phone, they will still be able to communicate with the operator.

A very useful device for carers is a dementia patient profiling device. This monitors the activity of the patient so that the carer is alerted to unusual or alarming behaviour that might harm the patient. The profiler is loaded with a typical behaviour profile for the patient. They are highly flexible devices that can be adapted for each patient’s specific requirements.

All of these devices can be extremely beneficial for elderly people or those who have a serious medical condition. They provide the peace of mind of knowing that help is easily reached, and the safety of having constant contact with medical professionals. If an emergency does occur, a simple push of a button will result in emergency medical services being dispatched, an act which could easily save someone’s life.