Weve all seen the commercial with the infamous line: Help, Ive fallen and I cant get up! The advertisement itself may have been a bit melodramatic, but it raises an important question: what should seniors do if they actually fall and cannot get up?This is where a medical alert system can be critical.What are Medical Alert Systems?Medical alert systems, sometimes referred to as life alert devices, are emergency monitors for seniors to use as they go about their everyday lives. Many medical alert systems are used in the seniors home. These usually consist of a base unit and sensors that are mounted on the wall of the home. These types of systems can detect a fall in the home and trigger an automatic call to emergency services.Some systems also come with a portable option for the senior to wear wherever they go. The main feature of mobile options is the help button. When an emergency such as an injury or fall occurs, seniors can press this button to send out an alert and get the help they need.Oftentimes seniors wear these portable monitors around their neck like a long necklace, on their wrist like a bracelet, on their belt loop, or in their pocket. These monitors should be small and portable so the senior can wear them at all times, and waterproof so they can wear them in the bath or shower a common location for falls.How Do Medical Alert Systems Work?Most medical alert systems allow for real-time tracking through the use of voice, data, and GPS technology. This is important because it gives emergency services the seniors exact location in case of an emergency.With a mobile device, seniors can press the help button after a fall to alert emergency personnel. An in-home system will automatically alert emergency services when it detects a fall. Many basic systems simply alert emergency services once the help button is pressed. More elaborate systems are connected to a 24-hour call center that fields the emergencies and determines the next move. They are able to either alert the seniors emergency contacts (set up ahead of time) or send for emergency services if needed.Who Should Use Medical Alert Systems?All seniors could benefit from having a medical alert system, since you never know when an incident may occur. But, these emergency alert buttons are especially important for seniors who live alone or are aging in place. If a senior who lives alone has a fall and no one is there to help, a medical alert system is not just beneficial; it can actually be lifesaving.Additionally, wearing a medical alert system is one way for seniors to maintain their independence at home while still being prepared for an emergency. And it also provides peace of mind for family members and caregivers that their loved ones can access help in case of an emergency.Why Should Seniors Use a Medical Alert System?The main reason for seniors to use a medical alert system is to allow for fast action in case of a fall or other emergency. According to the CDC, around 36 million falls are reported among seniors every year. Falls can be caused by a number of reasons, such as certain health and cognitive conditions, loss of muscle mass, and weakened eyesight, reflexes, and balance. They can also be caused by unsafe footwear or safety hazards inside and outside the home, like steps, rugs, spills, and clutter.Falls should be taken seriously when they occur. Falls are the leading cause of accidents, serious injuries, and accidental deaths in seniors. To that end, emergency departments treat 3 million seniors for injuries from falls every year. That is more than 8,000 falls every day.The risk of falling can also be a major source of anxiety for seniors, as falls can threaten their independence, mobility, and physical health.Oftentimes when a senior falls, they need help from someone else to regain their balance and get back up. But, if they live alone or no one is around, they may not be able to get themselves up at all. Being stuck on the ground for a long period of time is extremely dangerous for seniors and prolongs their risk of serious injury. Therefore, getting help quickly after a fall is key. With a medical alert system, even a senior who lives alone can have peace of mind that help is available when they need it all at the push of a button. How Much Do Medical Alert Systems Cost?As with all technology, the price of medical alert systems can vary based on equipment, activation, monitoring type, extra devices, and additional features.Some companies allow you to rent their medical alert system equipment, and some require you to buy it. Buying the items may cost anywhere from $50-$350 depending on the type of equipment.In addition, many medical alert systems charge a monthly fee to use their service. This fee pays for access to the 24-hour emergency call center.Generally, the service cost for at-home medical alert systems is around $25 per month or $239 per year. The service cost for on-the-go-devices is slightly more expensive at around $30-$45 a month. Sometimes there is an additional one-time installation or activation fee that can range from $25-$100. However, this fee is often included in the package when you purchase and initiate a medical alert system.Are Medical Alert Systems Covered by Insurance?Usually medical alert systems are not covered by insurance. But, some options might be available to help you cover the cost.For example, your HSA or FSA may offer a deduction for medical alert systems. Medicare Advantage may also cover some of the cost of medical alert systems. You may be able to get coverage through Veterans benefits as well. However, make sure you check with your insurance provider or your states Medicare/Medicaid program, as benefits can vary by policy or state.If you need assistance funding a medical alert system, be sure to contact your local sheriffs office or Area Agency on Aging, which sometimes have grants or resources available. Best Affordable Medical Alert Systems for SeniorsThere are hundreds of companies that sell medical alert systems. Some of the top-rated, affordable options are as follows:MobileHelp - The National Council on Aging (NCOA) voted this company as Best All-Around System. Their monthly fees start at $19.95 and fall buttons are available for an additional $10 per month. They also offer a free trial period.Bay Alarm Medical - The NCOA voted this company as Best for the Price. Their fees start at $25 per month and fall buttons are available for an additional $10 per month. They also offer a free trial period.Lively - Voted Best Health Services by the NCOA, this companys fees start at $25 per month, with fall detection buttons for an additional $25 per month.Other options include Get Safe as a basic option, Medical Guardian MGMove as a wearable option, and Fast Help as an easy, quick option available on Amazon. Some other notable providers of medical alert systems are ADT Medical Alert and Life Alert.How to Help Your Senior Loved OnesMedical alert systems are one impactful way to gain confidence about your senior loved ones safety as they age. For some seniors, this is all the reassurance they need about their safety and independence. But, other seniors may need a little more support.Having a fall can reveal or trigger the need for additional support. Whether you are looking for support in a senior living community or are seeking home health care services, Florida Senior Consulting can help. Our expert senior advisors will find your loved one the care they need to lead a healthy lifestyle, stay safe and lower their risk of falls and injuries. With this peace of mind ultimately comes a better quality of life for seniors and their families.When the decisions become too overwhelming, our experts are here for you. And, we offer these services at no cost to seniors or their families.Senior living on your terms. The choice should be yours.For peace of mind, call us at (800) 969-7176 or visit us at FloridaSeniorConsulting.com.

Many older adults have spent decades raising families in their homes where theyve created so many cherished memories. While it may not be possible for a loved one to live independently forever, making a few home modifications can keep the home safe and comfortable.Home modifications for older adults reduce fall risk and help loved ones stay in their homes for as long as possible. Falls are one of the top reasons why many lose their independence and mobility. Many home modifications are easy and can likely be done without needing to call in a professional, while others require careful planning to install.Basic Home Modifications: Remove anything thats a trip hazard Install an elevated toilet seat Add extra lighting Add traction slips to the bathroom floorAdvanced Modifications: Install grab bars Install a bathroom heat lamp Add a stairlift Install a walk-in tub Install a rampAssistive Technology: Medical Alert Systems Smart Home Devices including cameras Assistive seating including lift chairsWhile some home modifications can be expensive, they can help save money overall in comparison to the cost of health expenses associated with a fall or nursing home. Proper home modifications provide peace of mind knowing that loved ones are safe in their own home.

A common obstacle that comes with getting older is difficulty with mobility, or the ability to move around freely and easily. Mobility challenges can arise as we age for a variety of reasons, including loss of muscle mass, weakened joints, dizziness, nerve issues, foot pain, certain medications, and confusion. Less mobility can lead to an increased risk of falls and injuries. However, plenty of mobility aids exist to help seniors reduce their risk of falling when moving around the house or outside. With a lowered risk of falls comes more independence and a higher quality of life for seniors. And isnt that the ultimate goal as we age?  There are numerous types of mobility aids and solutions available for seniors. Keep reading for explanations of the most common types of mobility aids and how to decide which to use.Importance of Mobility AidsAccording to the CDC, more than 1 out of 4 people ages 65 and older has a fall each year. Furthermore, emergency departments treat 3 million seniors for injuries from falls yearly. Falling is the leading cause of accidents, serious injuries, and accidental deaths in seniors. Falls should always be taken seriously, as they can be a major threat to older adults health and independence. Understandably, falling is a common fear for many seniors, even if they have never fallen before. However, falls do not have to be inevitable with age. There are many ways to prevent or reduce a seniors chance of falling, including through the use of mobility aids.Choosing the Right Senior Mobility AidThere are many different types of assistive aids and devices that offer varying levels of mobility support for seniors. In the past, such a wide variety of devices was not always available to the general public, and options were often limited. However, in the past few decades, a great deal of devices have become widely available for everyday use by seniors. Mobility aids provide stability and prevent falling when seniors are standing, walking, and reaching in their everyday life. It is important to choose the right device based on the seniors level of mobility and the intended use. Below are some of the most commonly-used mobility aids for seniors, along with some of their advantages and disadvantages.CanesCanes are some of the most widely used and available mobility aids in the U.S. There are a number of different types of canes available to the public. Canes are a relatively simple walking aid and therefore are generally a cost-effective option.Single point canes are a type of walking assistance aid intended for people with light to moderate walking difficulties. They give the user an additional point of contact with the floor, providing more stability. These canes help with balance and relieve pressure on joints, making it easier for the user to move around.Another kind of cane is called a quad cane, which has four tips and therefore provides a broader base of support. They are also great for people who have light to moderate walking difficulties, but who require slightly more help with balance than a single-point cane can provide. As an added benefit, quad canes can stand on their own, which gives the user more freedom to use their hands. However, it is important to note that these canes can be slightly heavier to use.All canes come in a number of different styles. No matter which one you pick, make sure it has a wide rubber tip to prevent slipping. Also, make sure to get a cane that is the proper height. In general, when holding the cane, your elbow should have a comfortable bend of about 15-20 degrees. Ask your doctor or physical therapist to help you pick the right cane for you. WalkersPhoto Credit: Performance HealthAs the name states, walkers are another type of walking assistance aid. They are the next step up from canes in terms of support level. Walkers can have wheels, rubber tips, or tennis balls to help with traction and movement on the floor. Walkers are best for people who need stability but have trouble lifting a cane or staying balanced while standing up. They are also good for people who sometimes experience periods of dizziness or confusion. Keep in mind that users need to have decent upper-body mobility to maneuver a walker. Studies have shown that being an early adopter of a walker can significantly lower the chance of a fall. So while some seniors may be reluctant to use walkers, these tools can majorly improve their independence in the long run. RollatorsPhoto Credit: Simply MedicalRollators are another type of mobility aid specifically for walking assistance. Rollators are wheeled walkers that also have seats and hand brakes. These devices are best for people who need to sit down and rest frequently, or for those who have difficulty walking longer distances.Rollators are often easier to maneuver than walkers and usually provide the user with more speed. But, they may not be best for people with severe balance issues, as traditional walkers provide more traction. Manual WheelchairsPhoto Credit: AmazonWheelchairs are mobility devices that have two large wheels and a seat with a backrest. They are common mobility aids for people who are unable to walk on their own, but still have some upper body strength to turn the wheels. They come in a variety of shapes, styles, and sizes to suit different users preferences and needs.Since manual wheelchairs do require some upper body strength to operate, assistance pushing the wheelchair might be needed from a family member, friend, or caregiver. However, manual wheelchairs are a relatively affordable option, especially when compared to power wheelchairs. They are also usually more lightweight and easier to maintain. Power WheelchairsPhoto Credit: Mobility WorksPower wheelchairs are battery-powered wheelchairs with six wheels for added stability. They are a great mobility option for people who do not have the upper body strength to maneuver a manual wheelchair, or do not have a regular caregiver to help them. Because of this, they offer more independence and autonomy than a regular wheelchair. Power wheelchairs can be used indoors or outdoors. Varieties with tighter turn radiuses exist and are designed specifically for use in the home. Others are designed to be more heavy-duty and suited for different terrains.Note that while they offer a higher level of support, power wheelchairs are a more costly option than standard wheelchairs or other mobility devices.  Power ScootersPhoto Credit: Top MobilityPower scooters, also called electric mobility scooters, are electronically-powered chairs that users can drive around. They are similar to wheelchairs but are built like a motor scooter. Power scooters are ideal for people who have limited strength and trouble walking long distances, but still have some upper body mobility and upright posture. Scooters can cover a larger range of terrain than power wheelchairs, but they do have a wider turning radius. Because of their larger size and trouble in tight areas, power scooters might not be best for seniors who need mobility assistance at home. Instead, they are more ideal for usage outdoors, in public places, or in senior living communities with wide hallways and large rooms. How Much Do Mobility Aids Cost?For people paying out of pocket, mobility aids are available at almost all price points. For example, standard canes will usually cost between $15 to $35. High-quality walkers and rollators are slightly more expensive and can fall within the $40 to $200 range depending on features and materials. Powered mobility aids such as power scooters and power wheelchairs are the most costly to pay for out of pocket. The price can begin at $1,000 and can increase to $4,000 for higher-quality models.How to Pay for Mobility AidsDepending on the specific provider, mobility concern, and policy, many mobility aid purchases can be covered partially or fully by insurance. It is required that a physician signs off on the mobility aid to certify the need for the device.There are some other ways to acquire mobility aids for people who cannot afford them. For example, Medicare and Social Security have different programs available for seniors in need of mobility devices. Veterans Assistance benefits can also help cover the cost of assistive mobility equipment. Certain charities and foundations such as the Numotion Foundation and the American Outreach Foundation can often help people get wheelchairs and mobility aids for no cost, as well.  For a longer list of grants available for people with disabilities in need of mobility aids, click here.  And dont forget to research local groups and foundations in your area that may be able to provide mobility aids at no cost.Ways to Maintain MobilityIt is very beneficial to maintain your mobility as you age. The best way to remain mobile in your later years is to stay active and practice certain mobility skills regularly. Some ideas for maintaining mobility include walking, stretching, participating in low-impact cardio workouts, doing balance and coordination exercises, practicing good posture, and following a proper diet. Next StepsMobility aids can be life-changing for seniors who have trouble moving around on their own. They help prevent dangerous falls, provide reassurance about safety, and allow seniors to stay independent for longer. There are plenty of mobility aid varieties available for people with different needs, preferences, and budgets. Talk to a healthcare professional about the type of mobility aid that is best suited for you or your senior relative. Need further reassurance about your or your loved ones safety? It might be time to consider a senior living community. Whether you are looking for a maintenance-free, social lifestyle in an independent living community, some assistance with daily tasks in an assisted living community, or care at home, we can help make it happen.With decades of experience, our team of senior care experts will help you find the perfect community to stay safe and live your best life. From touring communities, dealing with the moving process, and even checking in regularly after the move, well handle the transition every step of the way. Let us do the hard part so you can focus on enjoying your golden years. Call us at (800) 969-7176 or visit FloridaSeniorConsulting.com to learn more about how we can help. Our services are at no cost to you.