Community Chat

[doxie1]

That seems high to me. We had one for my mom for a while that was around $30 a month. It had the home units and a wearable one. She had to check in once a day I think. We liked it and she did not like  them calling to check on her. We ended up using her cell phone and presetting numbers in it for her to use. That worked well for her. She had a pouch on her walker that would hold it as well a small bag that she could wear crossbody or hang it on her walker. 

The other thing that was a HUGE help was she went through a balance class with her PT that taught her how to fall and how to see if you could get up. She used this information all the time and was able to fall without breaking anything and able to calmly get it together after a fall.

doxie

[Marp]

@Ditzydori, you might find that this will fit your needs.  It is waterproof, has GPS and fall detection:  assistivetechnologyservices.com/skyangel911.html

Although Assistive Technology has it on sale right now if it is suitable I would do a search as you might find it at a better price.

This is a link to the user guide:  assistivetechnologyservices.com/documents/SkyAngel911FD%20User's%20Guide%20v170414.pdf

[MalteseMomma]

Please try ,ALERT 1, I have had them for years and love them. Very good service!

About $30 a month and always there immediately!

No contracts!

[RedTop]

If you have a home security system, check to see if that company offers this type of device.  

I well understand the safety and security aspect of the life alert device, but also knew someone who fell with one around her neck, laid there for 5 hours with a broken hip before her son found her.  She "forgot" she had the device.   

My own plan is to get a remote control thru my home security system to where I can alert my monitoring company for assistance.   Between that and my cell phone, I don't think I need another device, or monthly payment.  

Continued thoughts and prayers @Ditzydori.

[Zhills]

@Ditzydori I live alone also and have a fear of falling.  I haven't considered a life alert system but I have made some adjustments in my home and lifestyle because of it.

I have grab bars in both baths and am putting one by my toilet, not to help get up, but to steady, as I get up.  Hold on to a door knob anything to keep balanced.

I have 3 steps and I have made a habit of ALWAYS using the hand rail not matter how strong I feel.  You could walk through my house at night (it is never completely dark) and maneuver without running into or tripping on anything.  I make sure the floor is free of objects before I go to bed. 

I always walk with a hand out so I could feel anything in my path first and easy.  Even use an arm or elbow if you are carrying anything.

Also, I guess I admitted I am getting old when I traded my slippers and thong sandals for sandals that strap on.  They are Clarks, but I am not as likely to trip.

We all learn by repeating so if I start all these precautions now they should come natural as I age. I surely hope so.  

Start making good habits now even though you don't really need them now.  Hopefully they will become automatic later.  Fear is not any fun!

I observed my neighbor who is 85 on a ladder wearing flip flops last week.  That is just plain stupid!

So sorry about your spouse.  Did you give up on the idea of a Florida community?  

[AuntG]

Oh it was sad when your husband passed away.  I clicked just to read how you are doing.  You're wise to look into getting such a device.  I'd want one in the bathroom as so many falls happen there.

[Twins Mom]

Be careful about contract. I believe they are very difficult to end...must be death or moving to facility. Good idea but take time to consider all options. Good luck.

[software]

This is the first post I've seen since your husband's passing, Ive thought of you often.

Do you think you could get recommendations from your local fire department or doctors office?    Don't these gadgets have a dispatcher to call your local first responder?

Please don't get one with a long committment.    I know my mind was not clear after my husband passed 4+ years ago.   Maybe someone at Apple can help you with the App.  Are you doing this because of your upcoming surgery?

I've lived alone since my husband passed and I've never felt the need for one.

@Ditzydori

[RedTop]

@Zhills,

One of the smartest things we can do for ourselves is to start thinking safety measures years before we actually need them.   My husband and I started addressing this in our house nearly 15 years ago, when we were in our 40's.   

I have a cousin in her early 70's, who has had 3 serious falls in less than 6 months; all totally preventable with awareness and safety measures.  This last fall resulted in a fracture that will affect her for years to come.   Her doctor insisted she get someone to assess her home and help her husband safety proof the house.   Besides clearing her stairway, installing grab bars on her tub, and shower, removing throw rugs in the kitchen and hallway, improve lighting, my cousin was instructed to start wearing structured shoes with rubber soles, no more scuffs.   

The changes were simple, not costly, but the biggest adjustment has to be in my cousins attitude that she is 73, and is no longer as steady and stable on her feet, as she was in the past.  

[kivah]

@Ditzydori

I would suggest u rent out a room in ur house - I do!!!! At least someone will be there - but u do have to check them out very well. 

Many years ago, I lived with my mother. My room was in the front of the house and hers was in the back (it was a small single story house). Every morning, I'd hear her in the kitchen --- since she woke up earlier than I did. One morning, I didn't hear her - and checked her bedroom and she was laying on the floor. She didn't know why she was on the floor --- I called the paramedics and she was taken to the hospital - and she passed away soon after. If she had a phone or some type of Life Alert -- she never would have been able to use it.

I'm also sorry for ur loss. It's got to be very difficult.