Medical alert systems provide peace of mind for older people and their families, and in recent years, the technology has advanced considerably.
A Ludlow woman activated her medical alert system Tuesday when she fell and became trapped in her burning home. She was lucky.
There are numerous national and local companies that offer wristbands, pendants, and watches with the capability to contact first responders in an emergency. These devices come with monthly fees.
In recent years, their capabilities have expanded to include products that can dispense medication, or provide GPS tracking.
Director Laurie Cassidy of the West Springfield Council on Aging told 22News, “Some of the offerings might be video monitoring capability, a speakerphone for instance for having a conversation back and forth through the device itself.”
The West Springfield Council on Aging said families should do some research to decide which device best meets their needs.
Many major cell phone carriers also offer medical alarm systems.
