Managing your Safety & Security with Mobile PERS

The peace of mind, safety and security individuals have enjoyed at home for decades through traditional medical alert or PERS (personal emergency response system) units is now available in a small yet powerful mobile solution.  Companies like One Touch Med Alert LLC based out of Arizona are now offering the latest in mobile personal emergency response systems.  In other words, the future has arrived!

Essentially mPERS are cellular based personal emergency response systems designed to meet the growing demand from active seniors as well as individuals with special needs.  The Numera Libris, pictured in this article gives the user the ability to get help ANYWHERE, ANYTIME, 24/7, 365 with just "one touch" of a button.  However, there is much more to this device than just a personal help button. 

Numera Libris

Measuring about 1/3 the size of the average iPhone, the Libris is lightweight and easy to wear.  Most importantly it offers the user hands-free 2-way communication, automatic fall detection and location services all from a remotely managed response team.  With falls being the leading cause of injury death in individuals over age 65, the integrated fall detection is an invaluable feature. 

The Libris operates on the AT & T network.  The small charging cradle allows you to set the device next to your bed for easy access during the night. 

If you or a loved one are in need of a mobile solution to enhance your sense of freedom and independence then look no further.  The Libris from One Touch Med Alert is the only choice when it comes to mobile medical alert with integrated fall detection.

Be safe and if you're already a medical alert system user, we want to remind you to "Always Wear Your Pendant."

For information on the Libris call 1-866-217-1012.

 

Key Questions To Consider When Shopping for a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS)

Like any service or product that you may be considering for you or a loved one, it is important to gather information so you can make an educated consumer decision.  Special thanks to One Touch Med Alert LLC   for the useful information for this blog.  It is our goal to help you  make the right choice when selecting a service as important as this.  The questions we provide are general in nature and should be asked of any company that you may consider using.

Feel free to use this short checklist as you shop around and compare the service, pricing and equipment offered by other companies.  These questions are not listed in any order as they will vary in importance based on individual needs. 

Please keep in mind that we use the term PERS (Personal Emergency Response System).  Many of you may be more familiar with the term Medical Alert System, however, they are synonymous.

1. Do I need to have a land line? 
This is very important.  Not all providers offer wireless systems for the home.  In the event you do not have a land line and one is required, you will need to check with your local phone provider to determine the cost.  You will then have to add this to the overall cost of your service. 

2. Will my "personal help button" (transmitter) work if I am out in the yard, garage or driveway?
Be sure to inquire as to the range of the personal help button that you will wear.  Most will work hundreds of feet from the base unit.

3.  Do they offer more than one type of PERS?
PERS equipment and technology has advanced in the last few years with the advent of cellular, 2Way voice pendants and GPS capabilities.  In addition, each person has different needs.  There are many options today so be sure to get a PERS that fits your lifestyle.

4. Do they offer 2Way voice pendants (personal help buttons)?
As mentioned in question #3, PERS units have come a long way in the last few years.  One major advancement is the ability to speak directly to the monitoring center through the pendant that you wear.  This has become a popular choice for users and is something to consider. 

5.  Are there programming, activation or set up fees?
Each company is different.  It is not unusual for companies to charge some sort of fee for programming/activation or in home set up.    In addition, many seniors will want the device installed by the company providing the service, which not all companies offer.   Be sure to ask prior to signing a "service agreement."

6.  How quickly is my call answered?
When you press your "personal help button"  and the monitoring center receives the call, how long does it take to answer your individual call for help?  The company you are considering should know how quickly the average call is answered.

7. Can you get out of your "service agreement" if your loved one passes away or moves into a long term care facility?
Know how the company you are considering will handle this.   Unfortunately it does happen.  Make sure you know exactly what your financial liability will be in this situation.

8. Is the battery in my "personal help button" monitored?
What happens when the battery gets low?  Most service providers track this type of vital information.  Know whether or not the company your considering receives information about the battery life in your personal pendant and what they will do when and if there is a problem with your personal help button.

9.  Is the "personal help button" you were waterproof or water resistant?
Can you wear your transmitter button in the bath or shower.  With 45% of all falls in the home occurring in the bathroom, be sure to know whether it is simply water resistant or whether it is actually water proof. 

10. What is the cost for the service and are there discounts available?
Be sure to ask if there are discounts available.  Some companies will discount their monthly fees by offering an annual payment plan.  Others may only offer monthly billing.  Know when and how you will be billed.

Wireless Home System
(Cellular Base Unit)

Traditional Home System
(Land line Required)

Be sure to read one of our earlier notes on our blog!

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