How To Choose Fall Detection Devices For Seniors?
Fall detection devices or systems have become a must-have component of most seniors’ lives. And you’ll be quick to agree with that as soon as you look at the stats. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among older adults, with over 26.5% of those ages 65 or older experiencing a fall every year.
That being so, it’s clear that fall devices have come at the right time. These systems are fitted with motion sensors, accelerometers, and gyrometers to monitor a user’s movement, detect slow and large movements, and characterize a fall from normal activities.
When a fall is detected, the device sends a notification to the emergency contact put by the senior. As such, they function as safety tools to ensure you or your loved ones enjoy freedom and peace of mind, knowing that emergency help is a moment away.
However, not all fall detection devices for seniors are built the same. So, how do you choose the right one? That’s the purpose of this article. It’ll walk you through the different types of fall detection systems and give you key factors you need to consider so you can pick the best one for your situation.
Types of Fall Detection Devices
Before discussing what you should consider when choosing a fall detection device, let’s begin by exploring their types so you can know what your options are.
There are 2 main types of fall detection devices, and the following is a quick overview of both types:
1. Wearable Sensors
Wearable here means that seniors can put these sensors on around their necks and wrists. They include necklace watches or bracelets that utilize accelerometers and gyrometers to detect jerk movements or positional changes typical of falls.
Upon detecting a fall, the device will raise an alarm to caregivers or emergency response personnel who will then avail help.
2. Ambient sensors
Ambient sensors on the other hand are fixed onto your surroundings such as walls and ceilings. They monitor your movements in these areas using motion, pressure, and infrared sensors to pick out activities that are out of the normal or inactivity, as is the case, when someone falls.
And because these devices are not worn by seniors, they do not cause any discomfort that might be associated with wearable sensors.
With that in mind, let’s go over the most important factors you must consider when selecting a fall detection device:
1. Go For a Medical Alert System with Fall Detection Capabilities
It’s uncommon for seniors to need only an isolated fall detection device. Most of the time, it proves prudent to get them a comprehensive medical alert system that includes a fall detection feature so you can assure them of help in case of a fall and medical emergencies.
This is especially critical if you or an older adult in your family lives in Canada, where 20-30% of older adults report one or more falls yearly, with around 350,000 experiencing falls that limit normal activities annually. With such data, fall detection devices for Canadian seniors are a welcome intervention to keep older adults safe and out of the hospital.
So, if you’re considering getting a medical alert system for your senior, pick one with fall detection capabilities. With fall detection, the medical alert system can automatically detect if the senior has fallen and send an alert to the monitoring center, even if they cannot press the emergency button themselves.
2. Prioritize Accuracy and Reliability
Choose a fall detection device that promises superior accuracy and reliability to keep false alarms at a minimum while maximizing error-free fall detection—this way, seniors will be guaranteed maximum security.
3. Consider the Response Time
Here, select a device with a faster response time. Such a device will ensure help is on the scene when the accident happens, keeping your loved one from structural harm and enhancing security.
4. Range and GPS capabilities
While most falls occur within the household, it would be best to look for devices with a great range and GPS functions to identify falls and precisely pinpoint the seniors’ location within and without their homes.
5. Ensure the Device is Easy to Use
Given that seniors may not be very tech savvy, get them a device that is easy to operate and has basic, easy-to-follow usage instructions.
6. Don’t Forget Durability and Waterproofing
Pick a fall detection device that is highly durable and specifically water-resistant. This will ensure the device can endure everyday use while remaining practical in wet conditions.
7. Cost Considerations
Another crucial factor is to account for the cost of the gadget plus any additional charge for monitoring. Ensure that it is within your budget without compromising on your needs and the key functionalities of the device.
8. Round-the-clock Monitoring
Ultimately, ensure your preferred device is backed up by 24/7 monitoring and surveillance services to guarantee seniors that their emergencies will be promptly identified and responded to at any time of any day.
Final Thoughts
Fall detection devices are vital for protecting seniors and supporting their independence. With falls posing significant risks to older adults, selecting the right device can make all the difference in ensuring their safety and peace of mind.
Consider the senior’s specific needs and lifestyle when choosing a fall detection system. Evaluate factors such as device type, accuracy, response time, ease of use, durability, and additional features like GPS and waterproofing.
Opting for a comprehensive medical alert system with fall detection and 24/7 monitoring provides an added layer of security, ensuring timely assistance during emergencies.
