Many seniors want to remain independent and carry on with their lives as they always have done. Knowing that they have come to a point in their life that they might need a system like this is a scary thing to face. It is not really about the medical alert system, but about pride and the changes that aging and illness can bring about.
Even if they have taken that fall or had a stroke, they might rationalize that it won't happen again, or it was just an accident. According to a recent report from the CDC, 1 in 3 senior citizens experience a fall every year, and those seniors are more than twice as likely to fall again.
Medical alert systems are designed to give peace of mind and improve the quality of life. Med alert systems ensure help is available 24/7 at the touch of a button yet some seniors become apprehensive at the thought. Here are some of the most common reasons seniors won't take that step to help protect themselves in the case of a medical emergency.
I Don't Need It Yet
This is just delaying a decision. The day they are ready for it, could be the day they are laying on the ground for hours, possibly unconscious or unable to get up Alert 1 is a top choice. Research has shown that "the golden hour" which is the first hour after an emergency occurs where it is vital to get help quickly to avoid long-term health issues.
I Can't Afford It
Several Seniors live on a tight budget and even one dollar a day can seem too much to those living on such a fixed income. Getting your loved ones to the hospital quickly after a fall or stroke can not only reduce the severity of the injuries, reduce hospital stays but can also shorten recovery time. This low monthly fee is a bargain considering the alternative of assisted living facilities which can be extremely expensive. Medical alert systems allow seniors to remain independent by keeping them safe and secure in their homes longer.
I'd Like To Shop Around
While getting several quotes and speaking with several companies is a good idea when considering this important decision, this usually leads to procrastination. Set a date and time to give the senior time to "shop" but have a decision made at the time deadline so that they can be protected. Every day that they delay getting a system is another day that a serious injury could occur when they are alone.
Deciding to purchase a med alert system is a big decision. If your loved one seems uneasy about making the commitment and you've heard them justify their procrastination, understand what might be behind the words. Remind your loved one that was purchasing a medical alert system will ensure peace of mind for you and your loved ones, while also lengthening their independence, all for only a few dollars a month.
Medical Alert - Why Some Seniors Refuse
