How Life Alert Systems Work: An In-Depth Look

Life alert systems have essentially revolutionized safety for senior citizens and other vulnerable folk. Those who want to maintain their independence as a patient of chronic illness or medical risks find alert systems to be the perfect companion. 

Such systems have evolved a lot in the previous years. From very simple devices, they have become carriers of advanced technology. 

With time, they have also become even more reliable in connecting patients with corresponding medical help. This article will walk through how life alert systems work through an in-depth look.

History And Evolution Of Life Alert Systems

Life alert systems first came into being in the 1980s. They were needed because a reliable method was required to call upon emergency help whenever required. At first, these systems were simple. 

They would be in the form of a pendant or a bracelet that could summon medical help with a click of a button. With time, they have become equipped with even more advanced features. Modern life alert systems have everything from GPS tracking to automatic fall detection.

Core Components Of Life Alert Systems

The functionality of life alert systems comes to light with various core components. Here are some basic components of life alert systems:

Wearable Devices

Wearable devices are important in life alert systems. A person is bound to leave the house and move around at times. Wearable devices like pendants, bracelets, or clips can provide continuous access to prompt help. 

All of these have buttons that can summon medical professionals to your location. These are often water-resistant and durable to ensure your safety anytime and anywhere.

Base Units

The base unit is the communication hub of the life alert systems. It is set up at the house and connects to a wearable device. It may use a landline or a cellular network. 

If an alert is triggered, the base unit opens a two-way communication between the user and the monitoring center. Base units allow for clearer communication.

Mobile Units

Mobile units are functional parts of the life alert systems, working far beyond the home. These portable devices serve purposes similar to those of the base units. They allow users to connect to emergency services easily on the go. 

They have GPS technology to allow for the user’s location to be tracked at all times. These add a layer of safety for active individuals who stay out often. Even without connectivity to the base unit, they can use the mobile unit to seek help.

How Life Alert Systems Work

Understanding how life alert systems function in real-time is further important. Let us see how:

Activation Process

The activation process is when the user presses the button on a wearable device or a mobile unit. This sends out a signal to the base unit or sometimes even directly to the emergency care hub.

Monitoring

When the alert has been triggered, the monitoring center receives a signal. A two-way communication takes place. Trained medical experts assess the emergency to dispatch the appropriate help.

Emergency Response

The emergency response process is activated when the proper information has been received. The local emergency services will now send the right help to the user’s location.

GPS And Location Tracking

GPS and location tracking now help emergency services reach users on time. This cuts out delay times and gives the patient the help they need. Severe injuries and worsening of the condition are also avoided through this.

Conclusion

Life alert systems have truly come a long way. In just three core components, they work perfectly to get you the care you need in times of need. People with medical conditions and older folk find these systems especially beneficial.