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Frequent Contributor
Posts: 109
Registered: ‎04-17-2010

Hi,  

I buried my husband of 59 years this week, and on my next birthday I will be 80 yrs old....besides being very depressed I am also afraid to be alone in the house with no chance of help if I don't feel well.  I was wondering if any of you are using a medic alert button like we see in tv, and if so what brand are you using 

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 5,050
Registered: ‎03-15-2021

Re: Medic alert type buttons

@Hazelfaye  I am so sorry for your loss. I realize you are having to make a lot of decisions, but your getting an alert system is wise. I have no first hand knowledge, but I am certain other posters can give you the advice you seek.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 12,295
Registered: ‎03-27-2010

Re: Medic alert type buttons

I just want to express my condolences.  I'm sure there will be posters who will have experience with the medic alert button.  Keeping you in my heart during this challenging time.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 13,510
Registered: ‎05-23-2010

Re: Medic alert type buttons

[ Edited ]

@Hazelfaye @Consider an Apple Watch instead. The new watch will detect falls and will call relatives as well as rescue services for you. It can also take your pulse oxygen level, your heartbeat, an ECG, and other tests. The new model has glass that is strong if you should fall. You can also get phone calls on it so you don't have to go running to get the phone. You can wear it to bed and in the shower. It will work when the power goes out. There is no monitoring fee. IT ALSO TELLS TIME. You can go online with it. Use the calendar on it to set up appointments and get reminders. Use it for getting an Uber ride. 

Super Contributor
Posts: 260
Registered: ‎09-04-2014

Re: Medic alert type buttons

@Hazelfaye 

 

I'm so sorry for your loss.  I'm very glad to hear that you are planning ahead in case of an emergency.  I hope you stay in your home for as long as you physically can. Please do not be afraid to ask for help from friends, family and neighbors. We have elderly neighbors everyone keeps an eye on.  If we don't see them or hear from them, someone is checking.

 

It might also be a good idea to set up a daily phone call with a friend or family member so when they don't hear from you, they know something is "up"  and you need to be checked on.  Also, do you have a trusted friend or neighbor that you can give a spare key to in case they need to let EMS/police in?  In some cities/states, EMS/police can't enter if the door is locked.

 

I think our family had Life Alert but we never had to push the button so I don't know about their response time.  Whatever you use, please ask about all fees.  It can get costly. Not to discourage you but just want you to be aware.  Good luck and take care. I will keep you in my prayers.

Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,168
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Medic alert type buttons

@Hazelfaye   So sorry for your loss.  May your husband's memory be a blessing. 

“If we couldn’t laugh we would all go insane.”- Jimmy Buffet
Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,872
Registered: ‎08-04-2013

Re: Medic alert type buttons

@Hazelfaye   I agree with @Mindy D  about getting the Apple watch.  My DD got me one last year after I fell in the driveway and broke my arm and couldn't get up. I lay there until a neighbor came home and helped me.

 

The watch has given me a greater sense of calm. I don't worry as much about falling because it immediately detects the fall and will call either my DD or 911 depending on how I answer the question of Do I need assistance?. 

 

It is more than a watch and more like an iPhone.

Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,887
Registered: ‎01-15-2017

Re: Medic alert type buttons

@Hazelfaye  I am so sorry for your loss. I agree with the posters who recommended the Apple watch. It would be perfect for you.❤️

Honored Contributor
Posts: 36,947
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

Re: Medic alert type buttons

@Hazelfaye I am so sorry for your loss and can certainly identify with your issues--from my mom's experiences.

 

My best advice is to get with your doctors and find out what they recommend, and also get in contact with an area aging service, and your place of workship if you go to one.

 

All will have great information and resources.  And please do not hesitate to ask for and to take help from those around you.

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 5,457
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Medic alert type buttons


@Hazelfaye wrote:

Hi,  

I buried my husband of 59 years this week, and on my next birthday I will be 80 yrs old....besides being very depressed I am also afraid to be alone in the house with no chance of help if I don't feel well.  I was wondering if any of you are using a medic alert button like we see in tv, and if so what brand are you using 


@Hazelfaye

Sorry about your loss.

 

I have a 7 year old grand-niece who has a watch which works on her parents data plan. The phone can play games, and has a tracker, and she can only call four pre-selected numbers.

 

You may want to consider an Apple or Samsung watch when looking for a Medic Alert button.

 

If your home has an alarm system, most companies sell alert systems. ADT is the largest monitoring company they may sell direct to customers. 

 

You can find general information with a Google search.