In many other countries around the world, it’s been tradition that elders often lived with their adult children and grandchildren. This is especially true in countries such as Japan, Korea, China, Vietnam and even Mediterranean countries.  But this arrangement is undergoing change as the aging population worldwide increases and families move away from their parents to work. Now, as in the U.S., more seniors are living on their own, in retirement communities or in nursing homes.

With more seniors living independently, it means that family members or other caregivers are not there day to day to help take care of them. This can be a problem since as we age, our bodies and reaction times slow down, falls become an increasing danger, hearing and eyesight deteriorate, and we just can’t keep up like we used to. However, modern technology is now helping to make this transition easier and safer with the help of a personal emergency system.

Seniors Take Advantage of Modern Technology

These systems fill the gap left by seniors no longer living with family but who are not yet ready for a hospital or nursing center. Instead of a caregiver watching over a senior 24/7, a senior can summon help immediately by pushing an emergency call button worn on a necklace pendant or bracelet/wristband. A base unit is installed in the home and connects wirelessly with the button. Live, trained operators in call centers are available 24/7, 365 days a year. If there is an emergency, medical help can be dispatched to the senior’s location fast.

Many of these systems also operate outside the person’s residence. This is great since so many seniors are now living longer, more active lives. They aren’t just sitting in rocking chairs all day. Seniors are out walking, golfing, shopping, and gardening, and a personal emergency system provides an excellent way for them to be within a button click away from assistance.

Personal Emergency System: Faster Than Phones

Worldwide, these systems are becoming more and more the norm. Even those living with family members still benefit. A senior suffering a fall, heart attack, seizure, burn, medicine mix up or any number of possible emergencies can very quickly get help. A personal emergency system is even faster than trying to find and dial a phone for help.

In addition to certain systems being mobile, some also have GPS capabilities. This means that no matter where the person is, outside or inside, he or she can be located exactly. This is crucial in cases where a fast response can mean the difference between life and death. There are also fall detectors available, meaning that if a senior suffers a fall but can’t push the emergency button or speak, the operator will still be alerted that an unusual movement has occurred and can summon help.

Seniors: Still a Vibrant Generation

The world is changing fast, but seniors don’t have to be left behind. Check here for information on the various alert systems and their features.