Do Medical Alert Systems Work Outside The Home?

Yes they do! Even though everyone wants to feel secure while at home, but nobody wants to feel trapped inside 24/7. Fortunately, with improved technology, consumers can choose the home medical life alert system fits their lifestyle.

Landline & Cellular Systems Work Inside & Outside

Basic in-home medical alert systems that rely on landlines are often the least expensive option and are still very popular. Many seniors just feel more comfortable with basic landline phone service. They don’t want the worries associated with using an unfamiliar device, remembering to charge it, or the uncertainty of spotty cell coverage.

But many seniors have joined their younger counterparts and “cut the cord” on traditional landline phone systems. They prefer the cost savings and flexibility of cell phones and prefer cellular-based home medical alert systems.

With either option, service range is one of the most important considerations. Many companies offer coverage that only works 200-300 feet away from the base station. A fall near the mailbox or remote corner of the property could leave a senior unable to call for help.

Bay Alarm Medical’s systems offer 1,000 feet of coverage from the base station. That means you can be almost 1/5 mile away from home and still have a connection. Additional benefits include:

• Base stations have a 32-hour battery backup. A power failure won’t leave you unprotected.
• No need to buy an extra cellular plan. AT&T cellular powers our medical alert at no extra cost.

Check the AT&T area coverage map before you make a decision.

GPS Medical Alert Coverage Travels With You

Even a thousand feet of coverage may be too little for someone whose idea of “getting out of the house” means getting out of the city or state entirely. With a GPS medical alert system, you can call for help from your back yard or the back forty – if there is cell service.

Call center operators use the GPS coordinates to pinpoint your position and dispatch the nearest emergency responders. Customers frequently ask if they really need GPS monitoring if they already have a cell phone. After all, the GPS system uses the same cell towers as the phone.

The difference is the level of service provided after you push the medical alert button or call 911 on your phone.  The 911 operators won’t know who you are, have information about pre-existing medical conditions, or have your emergency contact list. In an emergency, you may not be able to relay that coherently to first responders.

In contrast, call center operators have all that information and can share it with emergency personnel. They will arrive on the scene knowledgeable about your medical history and ready to respond. In a situation where minutes – or even seconds – count, that can be a lifesaver.

Get Outside and Keep Moving

There are numerous benefits to outdoor activity for everyone, but especially for seniors. AARP endorses medical alert systems. Studies have found that exposure to nature can help reduce depression and improve memory function. Exercise improves overall health, including balance and stamina.

Stay safe! Most medical alert systems work outside the home, but each system offers different features and benefits. Always consider the user’s overall health, activity level, and location. Take a tour of Bay Alarm Medical’s home medical alert systems or contact us today, toll-free at 1-877-522-9633 to find the system that’s right for you or your loved one.