When people experience significant life transitions – such as retirement, changes in health and shifts in social roles – the question of when to invest in a personal alarm becomes increasingly relevant as we prioritise how to best maintain their health, independence and safety. Research shows personal alarms are an essential tool that provide not only peace of mind but immediate practical assistance when needed most.
Want to know when it is time for you and your family to consider a personal alarm? Continue reading to learn how to identify the right time and make an informed decision.
Understanding the Need
The decision to obtain a personal alarm is not just about age; it’s about acknowledging the changes in your life. As we get older, some people might start to experience health concerns, some might experience a decrease in mobility, while others might find themselves living alone.
As health and mobility challenges become more prevalent, having a personal alarm can be a game-changer, especially for those who wish to maintain their independence because it ensures help is readily available at any moment.
Early Prevention and Preparedness
Many people only consider an alarm after experiencing a fall or other health scare. Waiting for an emergency to strike can be dangerous and scary to the persons involved, so it’s essential to shift the perspective from a reactive approach to a proactive one. We know that prevention and preparedness for an emergency situation results in higher chance of a better outcome. For the same reason that we have smoke detectors, by equipping yourself with a personal alarm, you and your family are actively taking charge of your wellbeing and putting safety measures in place.
Evaluating Lifestyle and Routine
The right time to invest in a personal alarm can vary depending on your lifestyle and routine. People who maintain a relatively active and independent lifestyle, and routinely see other people might delay getting a personal alarm. However, people who live alone, and people with mobility issues or other health concerns, should consider a personal alarm to ensure that assistance is readily available in case of falls or emergencies. Or if you find that you are less confident engaging in your previous activities, an alarm may help you maintain more of your lifestyle and routine.
Family and Caregiver Perspectives
The decision to introduce a personal alarm into the life of a loved one can also be influenced by the perspectives of family members, friends and carers. Loved ones might notice changes in a person’s health or mobility that warrant the need for a personal alarm. Carers, who often play a vital role in ensuring the wellbeing of seniors, often benefit from a personal alarm as it adds a layer of support and assistance.
If you notice a decline in your health, it’s important to involve your family and share any concerns, symptoms, or challenges you are experiencing. Involving your family can help with early detection of health issues, timely medical care, and aids in long-term planning and a sense of shared responsibility and trust.
Embracing Technological Advancements
Modern personal alarms are a far cry from what many might imagine. With the integration of advanced technologies, these little devices offer a range of useful features such as fall detection, GPS and two-way communication. With alarm options that include home, mobile and watch alarms, you can choose a product that suits your lifestyle, capabilities and preferences. It’s important that the alarm fits into your daily routine seamlessly as this will enhance its effectiveness and empower you to navigate various situations with confidence and independence.
The Empowerment of Choice
Ultimately, the decision of when to get a personal alarm should be an empowered choice rather than an impulse triggered by an unfortunate event. It’s about recognising your current stage of life, evaluating your health and individual needs, level of independence, and available support systems, and embracing the idea of aging with grace and safety.
By considering this combination of factors, you and your family can make a smarter choice that prioritises your safety and wellbeing and gives everyone peace of mind in knowing that you can call for help whenever you need.