Fall Detection Devices
By Natalia Presta, student volunteer, and Ellen Ryan
Safety at home is a common concern among older adults, especially those living alone. In case of an emergency, like a fall, we would all want to have help at our fingertips.
Wearable electronic devices are increasingly available to offer peace of mind for older adult and their loved ones. An alerting device can be worn around the neck as a pendant or on the wrist as a watch. Note that individuals with a pacemaker cannot wear the pendant. In an emergency, you can push a button to reach a person ready to speak and offer 24/7 assistance. You can report what has happened and indicate that you are OK, or that your listed loved ones should be contacted, or that you need immediate medical assistance. If you cannot speak, medical assistance is sent.
Research demonstrates that falls in or near the home become more frequent as we age and that quick treatment after a fall improves the chances of an older person returning to their way of life. Since falls often happen in the bedroom or bathroom, the waterproof device must be worn at all times, except when the battery is charging. Devices vary in the frequency of charging.
Medical alert systems have become more sophisticated and now can detect falls, especially useful if you are unconscious or cannot press the button for some reason. The device can sense the sudden change in posture typical of a fall and contact the person automatically to ask for help. The more sophisticated the service offered, the greater the price. The wide field of devices on the market can be intimidating.
Security and fall detection devices vary significantly as do initial and monthly costs. Determining which device fits specific needs, interests, experience with technology, and financial situation can be daunting. A security system might rely on pushing a button, offering two-way conversation, or only sending the help request. One fall detection system might be simpler than another. The feature to contact one or two loved ones before sending medical assistance can be selected. Another optional feature is the ability to use the device on the go, not only at home, or for a distance covering the yard or condo building, not only the specific living area.
The most sophisticated devices can also detect changes in medical indicators such as blood sugar for diabetes or blood pressure for hypertension/hypotension, monitor sleep quality, count walking steps, etc. Yet, those devices are much more expensive and often harder to use.
Certainly, the technology will continue to improve, and likely become less expensive, because of the importance of getting medical assistance as soon as possible after a fall and in other medical emergencies.
Our list is based on the following websites and the information shared to the public.
https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/medical–alert–systems/lifeline–review/ https://seniorsbulletin.ca/best–medical–alert–systems–canada/
We offer the Appendix below to guide initial decision-making about a suitable device. We have listed key features of the various Canadian emergency fall detection devices, the pros and cons of each device along with a cost breakdown.
Appendix
Lifeline by Philips (Lifeline Canada)
Available models: HomeSafe standard, HomeSafe with Fall Detection and On the Go
Pros
- Reliable and well-established brand
- Advanced fall detection technology with accelerometers, barometric sensors and advanced algorithms
- GPS tracking for precise location (available with On the Go)
- Waterproof and shower-safe designs
- 30-day trial period
- 24-7 connection to the monitoring centre
- Free caregiver app
- Two-way voice communication
Cons
- Higher costs, especially with fall detection features
- $99.95 set-up fee for On the Go model
- No watch model is available. So nothing available for pacemaker users
Costs per model
- HomeSafe Standard: starting at $29.95 per month
- Home Safe with Fall Detection: $44.95 per month
- On the Go: $45.95 per month (an additional $15 per month if you choose to add fall detection).
Apple Watch
Pros
- Pros Heart Rate Monitoring: Continuous heart rate tracking can help detect irregularities.
- ECG App: Allows users to take an electrocardiogram anytime.
- Fall Detection: Detects hard falls and can automatically call emergency services.
- Fitness Tracking: Encourages physical activity by tracking steps, workouts, and activity levels.
- SOS Feature: Allows for quick access to emergency services.
- Emergency Contacts: Sends alerts to designated contacts in case of emergencies.
- Reminds users to take their medications, helping with adherence to prescribed regimens.
- Phone Calls and Messaging: Allows seniors to stay in touch with family and friends without needing a separate phone.
- Additional data plans can be added to existing Apple watches if a phone is out of reach from the individual.
- GPS Functionality: Helps with navigation and provides directions, which can be particularly useful for those who might get lost.
- Provides gentle nudges to move, stand, and complete exercise goals, promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Cons
- Apple Watches are relatively expensive compared to other fitness trackers and smartwatches
- The technology can be overwhelming for those not comfortable with digital devices.
- Requires some setup and understanding of its features to be used effectively
- Daily charging is typically required, which might be inconvenient or easily forgotten by some seniors
- Some models might be considered bulky or heavy, potentially causing discomfort for continuous wear.
- No pendant options available
- For full functionality, an iPhone is needed, which adds to the overall cost and complexity Does not work with Android devices
- Some users might become overly dependent on the watch for health monitoring and alerts, potentially leading to anxiety or neglect of regular medical check-ups
Website: https://www.apple.com/ca/watch/
Medical Alert by ADT
Available models: Medical Alert Plus and On-the-Go
Pros
- No activation or equipment fees
- Flexible payment plans (monthly quarterly and annual)
- Waterproof help buttons
- 24/7/365 response support
- Landline and cellular options are available
- Mobile app included with service
- Available as a pendant or a watch
Cons
- Limited range between 100-600 feet
- Fall detection is not available on all plans
Costs
- Medical Alter Plus: $37.99 per month
- On-the-Go: $39.99 per month
- Fall detection: Additional $11 per month
LifeFone
Available models: At-Home and On-the-Go
Pros
- Multiple device options including GPS-enabled mobile alerts
- Discounts and perks such as a free lockbox with service
- Long battery life
- Waterproof designs
- Personalized emergency care plans (can send messages through text to loved ones)
- Device finder (if one has misplaced their fall detection device)
- Caregiver App (additional $8 per month)
- 30-day trial period
Cons
- Higher cost for additional features
Costs:
- At-Home: Starting at $24.95 per month
- Fall detection: Additional $5 per month
Website: https://www.lifefone.com/medical-alert-systems
Caretrak
Pros
- Lightweight and wearable pendant
- No landline required
- Works through both Canada and the United States
- Automatic fall detection and emergency alerts
Cons
- Pendant audio may be inaudible and difficult for seniors hard of hearing
- 6-month contract
- Higher associated fees
- No wearable watch
Costs
- Must contact a representative for specific pricing details
Website: https://caretrak.com/
Medical Alert Systems
Available models: Home system, Home & Yard System, Fall Detection System, Cellular System,
Mobile with Fall Detection, Home and Away System with GPS
Pros
- Affordable
- No additional equipment costs
- Month-to-month contract
- Advanced GPS tracking
Cons
- Limited range for pendant model (only option)
- No medication tracking options
Costs
- $29.95 per month plus shipping (this cost may vary due to medical devices and additional features that an individual may need)
Red Dots Alert
Available models: At Home, At Home+, GPS SmartSole and RDA Pace SmartWatch
Pros
- Discreet devices such as a pendant, watch or sole for shoes
- Access to 24/7 specialist
- Automatic Fall Detection (option feature for At Home Device)
- Protection on the go and at home
- GPS tracking
- Free installation and activation
- Risk-free guarantee
- Two-way audio
- Daily check-ins
Cons
- Limited range for certain devices
- Specific watch versions must be charged daily (ex. RDA Pace)
- Equipment Fee: $99.99
- Recurring monthly fee: $59.99
Website: https://reddotalerts.ca/
