A medical alert system is a convenient and reliable way to keep seniors safer. With just one press of a button, seniors can get help if they fall or have another kind of medical incident and need assistance.
Wearing a medical alert gives both seniors and their caregivers peace of mind, knowing that should anything happen, emergency responders, pre-chosen caregivers or family can be on their way in seconds.
However, as with any technology, medical alert systems can go wrong. It’s not common, but occasionally there might be a problem with the battery, or a landline system might get disconnected, or a cellular system could go out of range.
A medical alert only offers protection if it is in good working order. That’s why we recommend testing your medical alert system regularly – you can remind your loved one to do so if they are able to, or you can make a note in your schedule to pop by and do it yourself.
Related: Importance of Choosing a Comfortable Medical Alert
What Is The Best Way To Test A Medical Alert System?
Testing your medical alert system is quick and easy:
- Press the medical alert button
- When the operator asks what help you need, just let them know that you are testing your system
- If the system is a landline system, try moving to different areas of the house, to make sure you’re still in range even when standing on the porch, in the bathtub or even out in the yard.
And that’s it! Testing your medical alert system is super easy.
How Often Should You Test a Medical Alert System?
We recommend testing your medical alert system every week if you can. Although this may seem like a lot, whether or not the medical alert works could truly be a matter of life or death. It’s better to test every week and have the confidence of knowing all is well, than to find out because the system didn’t work when it was needed.
Is There A Best Time To Carry Out A Test?
No – because call centers are monitored 24/7 there is no right or wrong time to test (and if yours is not, it is time to switch medical alert providers as soon as possible!) Just do it whenever it is convenient for you and/or the user.
What About Tests Carried Out By The Provider?
Some medical alert companies carry out automatic tests. These are usually concerned with the unit’s battery life, and are a fantastic feature. It’s worth checking the information before purchasing a medical alarm to see if regular battery checks are part of the monthly service.
However, such tests don’t replace testing your medical alert system by connecting with the call center, so you should still do that regularly too.
Aren’t I Taking Up Time When Someone Else Might Need Help?
We hear this concern a lot from seniors and caregivers who worry that they are bothering the call center staff, or taking away time from someone who needs immediate help.
We understand the concern, but please try not to worry. Regular testing is part and parcel of daily life at any medical alert call center. Providing reliable service to customers is a key focus of any medical alert company, and operators are delighted to help make sure that need is met.
A medical alert system provides peace of mind and help when seniors need it. Regularly testing your medical alert system ensures the system is working and ready to help your loved one should they require assistance. That’s why it’s a good idea to test today, and rest well knowing they are protected in the event of a fall or medical emergency.
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