Fall Monitoring Devices
Fall Monitoring Devices
If you or a loved one falls, a fall detection device can help ensure that emergency assistance is on the way. Most systems are equipped with a button that you can press if you fall, and most have sensors that detect a fall and send an alert to your medical alert system's monitoring center.
Many medical alert providers will offer a fall detection device as an optional add-on for an additional fee. The cost can range from $5 to $10 per month depending on the system.
Medical alarm Some of these devices are entirely waterproof, so you can wear them in the bathtub or shower without fear of getting them wet. These systems are also easy to use and provide around-the-clock protection.
Precision versus False Alarms
Even though automatic fall detection can be helpful, it's not 100% accurate. In fact, in a 2015 study published in Gerontology, researchers found that about one of every 15 detected falls was false-positive.
This may be because the sensor's accuracy depends on a person's position and movement, as well as how quickly a fall is happening. It's important to test your device monthly and let your provider know if you notice any changes in the accuracy of your fall detection.
The best fall detection devices are lightweight, waterproof, and easy to use. They're designed to fit around the neck, wrist, or ankle, and they include features like two-way communication and automatic call confirmation.